With just a day left for the world-famous Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026, Puri has witnessed extremely heavy rainfall, prompting heightened vigilance among authorities as thousands of devotees continue to arrive in the holy city.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Puri recorded 143.8 mm of rainfall in the 24-hour period between 8:30 am on July 14 and 8:30 am on July 15. The city also experienced thunderstorms, leading to concerns over weather conditions ahead of the annual chariot festival.
The latest nowcast issued by the Meteorological Centre, Bhubaneswar, at 10 am on Wednesday remains valid for the next six hours. It forecasts a generally cloudy sky with light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms over Puri. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain between 27°C and 29°C, while humidity levels are likely to stay extremely high at 88–98%.
Weather observations recorded at 8:30 am showed the city’s temperature at 25.4°C, with humidity touching 98%, indicating persistent monsoon conditions.
IMD Issues Advisory for Rath Yatra Devotees
Keeping the large influx of pilgrims in mind, the IMD has advised devotees to remain cautious during lightning and thunderstorm activity.
People have been urged to move immediately to permanent shelters during heavy rain, lightning or strong winds and avoid standing under trees, electric poles or temporary structures. Pilgrims are also advised to wear non-slip footwear and exercise caution while walking on rain-soaked and slippery stretches of the Grand Road (Bada Danda).
The weather department has further recommended that devotees stay hydrated, keep mobile phones fully charged and regularly monitor official weather bulletins, as monsoon conditions can change rapidly.
Special precautions have been advised for senior citizens, children and people with existing medical conditions, who are encouraged to avoid prolonged exposure to rain and crowded areas.
Schools Closed in Puri Amid Heavy Rain
In view of the continuing heavy rainfall and thunderstorm activity, the Puri district administration has declared a holiday for all educational institutions on Wednesday.
Puri Collector announced the closure of all government, private and aided schools, from Shishu Batika (Anganwadi) to Plus II, as a precautionary measure to ensure students’ safety.
Earlier, the IMD’s 7 am nowcast had forecast a generally cloudy sky with moderate rain and thunderstorms until 1 pm, with temperatures expected between 25°C and 27°C and humidity ranging from 85–95%.
At 5:30 am, Puri recorded a temperature of 25°C with 92% humidity, reflecting the impact of the active monsoon system over the region.
Authorities continue to monitor the evolving weather situation closely as preparations intensify for the grand Rath Yatra, urging devotees to follow official advisories for a safe pilgrimage.
