Residents across Odisha are experiencing intense and unpredictable weather as a powerful hailstorm struck Keonjhar on April 7, 2026.
Exceptionally large hailstones, weighing between 500 grams and 1 kilogram, caused widespread disruption and raised concerns about the severity of the ongoing weather system.
According to the India Meteorological Department, the extreme weather is linked to an upper air cyclonic circulation over Chhattisgarh. This system is driving thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and hail across multiple districts in Odisha.
Weather Alerts Across Odisha
The IMD has issued orange and yellow warnings to alert residents and authorities:
- Orange Warning Areas: Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, and Keonjhar
- Expected: Heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, winds up to 60 km/h, and possible hail
- Yellow Warning Areas: Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda
- Expected: Thunderstorms with lightning and winds between 30–50 km/h
7-Day Weather Forecast for Odisha
- April 9: Widespread rain and thunderstorms across coastal and northern districts; risk of hail and strong winds in high-alert areas
- April 10: Continued thunderstorms with moderate rainfall in several districts including Cuttack, Puri, and Khordha
- April 11: Stormy conditions persist in parts of northern and coastal Odisha
- April 12–15: Weather turns dry across the state, with rising temperatures and humid conditions, especially in Balasore, Bhadrak, Khordha, and Ganjam
Safety Advisory for Residents
Authorities advise everyone to stay cautious during this period of unstable weather. People are encouraged to:
- Stay indoors during thunderstorms and lightning
- Avoid open fields and tall structures
- Secure loose objects to prevent damage from strong winds
- Stay updated through official weather alerts
The IMD also warns that the transition to hot and humid conditions later in the week may increase the risk of heat-related discomfort, making it important for everyone to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions.
