The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Karnataka as Cyclone Asna intensifies over the Arabian Sea. The cyclone, which has been brewing over the past few days, is expected to make landfall on the western coast of India, bringing with it torrential rains, strong winds, and the potential for widespread disruption.

Karnataka, particularly the coastal districts and the Malnad region, is on high alert. The IMD has predicted that these areas could receive extremely heavy rainfall, with some regions potentially witnessing more than 200 mm of rain in a single day. Authorities in the state have been urged to take precautionary measures, including evacuating vulnerable populations from low-lying areas and preparing emergency response teams for possible flooding and landslides.

While the immediate threat from Cyclone Asna is focused on Karnataka, the IMD has also issued warnings for Gujarat. The state is expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours as the cyclone moves northward along the coast. Coastal regions of Gujarat, including cities like Surat and Veraval, are likely to be most affected.

As Cyclone Asna approaches, disruptions in transportation, electricity supply, and communication networks are expected across the affected regions. Airports in Karnataka and Gujarat are on standby for potential delays or cancellations, and train services may also be impacted by the severe weather.

First cyclonic storm to form in the Arabian Sea in August since 1976 is Cyclone Asna, named by Pakistan. The storm is presently moving away from the Indian coast and toward the west-northwest.