As Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu advances towards the Andhra Pradesh coast, several parts of Odisha are bracing for severe weather disruptions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast torrential rain, active thunderstorms, and strong squally winds across multiple districts in the state.
Heavy Rainfall Warning for Ganjam and Gajapati
According to the latest meteorological bulletins, isolated heavy rainfall is expected to lash the Gajapati and Ganjam districts starting today. The severe weather activity will be accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kmph, with peak gusts touching 60 kmph in several coastal and southern districts.
The affected regions subject to high-wind and thunderstorm warnings include:
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Southern & Coastal Belt: Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, and Khordha.
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Central & Northern Districts: Baleswar, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Kataka, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Kalahandi, Kandhamala, Nabarangpur, and Nayagada (experiencing winds up to 30–40 kmph gusting to 50 kmph).
Nowcast Advisory Issued for 10 Districts
In a short-range nowcast warning issued early today, the Met Department flagged 10 districts for immediate weather activity. Light to moderate rain, together with isolated thunder and lightning, is expected over Baleshwar, Bhadrak, Kendrapada, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri.
Residents in these zones are strongly advised to limit unnecessary travel, stay updated on local weather developments, and seek safe shelter during periods of heavy lightning.
Orange Warning Extended for South Odisha
The IMD has escalated warnings for South Odisha by issuing an Orange Alert covering November 3 and November 4. During this window, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati, and Ganjam are likely to experience heavy to very heavy downpours. Wind speeds across the region are expected to intensify to 50–60 kmph, with gusts up to 70 kmph.
Flood and Landslide Threats
Authorities have cautioned that sustained heavy rain over the coming 48 hours could lead to local flood-like conditions and severe waterlogging in low-lying urban and rural areas. In hilly terrains—particularly across Gajapati, Koraput, and Rayagada—the risk of landslides remains high. Local administrations have been put on high alert to handle emergencies, manage drainage blockages, and ensure swift evacuation if water levels rise.
