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Unusual hailstorms have recently hit Bengaluru and parts of North Karnataka, covering roads with ice pellets, slowing traffic, and damaging crops. Though these events seem rare, they are caused by well-known weather processes linked to seasonal changes.
Formation of Hailstorms & Rainfall in Bengaluru
As hailstorms form inside strong thunderclouds when heat, moisture, and wind come together, raindrops are lifted high into the sky by powerful upward winds called updrafts. At high altitudes, where temperatures are very low, these droplets freeze into small ice particles. These particles are pushed up and down within the cloud multiple times, adding layers of ice. Once they become too heavy, they fall to the ground as hailstones, sometimes growing as large as golf balls.
Weather Changes in Karnataka
The recent weather changes in Karnataka are mainly due to pre-monsoon conditions. In the past few weeks, temperatures in the region have been quite high, between 35°C and 38°C. This heat causes warm air to rise quickly, forming tall and strong thunderclouds. Moist winds from the Bay of Bengal add more energy by bringing in moisture, increasing the chances of heavy rain, lightning, and hail. Another important factor is wind shear, which is the change in wind speed and direction at different heights. A north-south wind pattern over Karnataka has helped storms grow stronger and more organised, leading to intense weather.
Hailstorms are very localised, so one area may see heavy hail while nearby places get only rain. This is common during pre-monsoon months, March to May, when weather conditions are unstable.
Weather Alerts in Bengaluru
The India Meteorological Department has issued alerts for more hailstorms and strong winds. While climate change is not the direct cause, rising temperatures may make such short, intense weather events stronger in the future.
