Rain announces approaching winter in Bangalore

Bangalore was caught unawares on Friday afternoon with lashing rains bringing the temperatures down, much to the relief of the
citizens.

But the rains could also be a reminder to you to remain prepared for more such showers in the next two-three days. Besides, it is also a reminder that the winter is gradually setting in and that you be better prepared to ward off any sickness.

On Friday, the city received 25 mm of rain. “There was a system forming in the Bay of Bengal which was weakening. It turned into a trough of low pressure which has brought rains to South Interior Karnataka, including Bangalore. Rain will continue for one or two days and then cold weather will start,” explained a duty officer at the Meteorology Department.

However, doctors advise that precautions be taken as sudden change of weather can be difficult for the body to acclimatise. “Whenever there is a drop in temperature, viral infections like cold, flu are likely to affect people. Rain conditions followed by dry spell may cause dengue and malaria,” said Dr D Prasad, consultant internal medicine, BGS Global Hospitals.

Respiratory infections and lung infections are also common in this weather. Dr Tejaswini Natraj, a physician said, “There is a noticeable change in the weather when it suddenly gets cold or warm. Initially, asthma complaints pour in. Respiratory infections, viral infection involving respiratory tract and allergic bronchitis are also seen.”

Many doctors also feel that this season is a harbinger of winter weather setting in. “The weather is changing constantly and in this weather people tend to fall sick quickly, these are signs of winter setting in Bangalore. The skin tends to become dry in this weather due to which people skin start to crack and dry due to which the skin starts to itch," said Dr H Paramesh of Lake Side Hospital.

"Bronchitis, asthma and sinus are the prevalent health conditions affecting people in the current weather conditions. I would suggest people to drink hot liquids and keep themselves warm,” added Paramesh.

However, one can take enough precautions to keep oneself away from disease and stay healthy. “Using mosquito nets, repellents and covering oneself with full-sleeved clothing could help. Wearing warm woolen clothing and drinking warm beverages also helps. It is best to avoid street food and consult a doctor if you have runny nose or fever which persists,” Dr Prasad said.

(Inputs from Shubha Shastry and Farzana Rahman)