Odisha has started receiving much-needed relief from the ongoing heatwave as Kalbaisakhi-induced rainfall sweeps across several parts of the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible hailstorms over the next few days.
Heavy showers have already drenched Koraput, Sunabeda, and surrounding regions, bringing a noticeable drop in temperatures by Wednesday evening. According to the IMD, rainfall is expected to continue until March 23, 2025, helping to cool down the state. Temperatures are likely to remain 3 to 5 degrees Celsius below normal due to the ongoing weather conditions.
The IMD has issued an Orange Warning for six districts, predicting thunderstorms, lightning, and wind speeds between 30 and 40 km/h. Hailstorms are also possible in isolated areas. From March 22, the rainfall intensity is expected to increase, bringing widespread showers across Odisha.
Districts under today’s Orange Warning include Balasore, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sundargarh, and Jharsuguda. Additionally, the IMD has placed ten districts on Orange Alert and four on Yellow Alert for March 22, urging residents to stay cautious.
The Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) has directed all district collectors to remain on alert and monitor the situation closely. Collectors have been asked to report any damage caused by thunderstorms, lightning, whirlwinds, or hailstorms and take necessary steps to prevent casualties and protect infrastructure.
The shift in weather is expected to bring major relief to residents after days of extreme heat, with the situation being monitored closely by the authorities.
