Bhatkal: Triggered by a low-pressure formation over the Bay of Bengal, Karnataka has been witnessing heavy rainfall over the past few days. The Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for two days — Monday and Tuesday — in five districts: Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, Shivamogga, and Chikkamagaluru.

In view of the severe weather conditions, the administrations in several rain-hit districts, including Hassan and Kodagu, have declared holidays for schools and colleges on Monday.

Along with the red alert, orange alerts have been sounded for Belagavi and Haveri districts. The weather office has also cautioned that Ballari, Bengaluru Urban, and Bengaluru Rural are likely to experience strong winds along with moderate to heavy and continuous showers.

Since Sunday, widespread heavy rainfall has been lashing many parts of the state. The downpour continued on Monday morning as well, disrupting normal life, particularly in the coastal and Malnad regions.