The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Warning for several districts in Odisha as intense thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, lightning activity and gusty winds are expected to impact parts of the state over the next 24 hours.
According to the latest weather forecast, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj and Balasore are likely to experience severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rainfall and wind speeds reaching 50-60 kmph. Residents have been advised to remain cautious as adverse weather conditions may affect daily life, transportation and agricultural activities.
Orange Warning for Northern Odisha
The IMD has placed Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj and Balasore under Orange Alert due to the likelihood of heavy rainfall, frequent lightning strikes and strong winds.
In addition, districts including Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Kalahandi, Kandhamal and Nabarangpur may witness thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds of 50-60 kmph.
Weather experts warn that strong winds could damage standing crops, uproot trees, disrupt power supply and affect communication networks in vulnerable areas.
Yellow Warning Issued for Several Districts
A Yellow Warning has been issued for Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Angul, Dhenkanal, Boudh, Nuapada, Bolangir, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khordha and Nayagarh, where thunderstorms with winds of 40-50 kmph are likely.
Meanwhile, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh and Sonepur may experience thunderstorms with wind speeds of 30-40 kmph.
Heat Wave Conditions Continue in Some Areas
Despite widespread rain forecasts, isolated heat wave conditions are expected to persist in Koraput and Khordha districts during the initial phase of the forecast period.
Warm night conditions are likely in Bolangir, while hot and humid weather may continue in several coastal districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Puri and Ganjam.
Rainfall Activity to Continue for Five Days
The IMD has predicted light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms across many parts of Odisha over the next five days.
From June 7 onwards, rainfall activity is expected to shift towards southern and western Odisha. Districts such as Koraput, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Gajapati and Ganjam are likely to witness recurring spells of rain and thunderstorms through June 11.
Coastal districts including Puri, Khordha and Nayagarh are also expected to remain under weather warnings during the forecast period.
Safety Advisory
The IMD has urged residents to follow safety precautions during thunderstorm activity:
- Stay indoors during lightning and thunderstorms.
- Avoid taking shelter under trees.
- Keep away from water bodies and open fields.
- Unplug electrical appliances during severe weather.
- Follow local administration and traffic advisories.
- Farmers are advised to take necessary precautions to protect crops and livestock.
Authorities continue to monitor the evolving weather situation and have urged people to stay updated through official weather bulletins.
With heavy rain, lightning and strong winds forecast across several districts, residents are advised to remain alert and prioritise safety over the coming days.
