The grand Rath Yatra celebrations in Odisha may face weather disruptions this year, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued multiple alerts predicting heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across the state from June 25 to 28.
A cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal is expected to trigger widespread rain accompanied by lightning and gusty winds, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar.
Key Warnings:
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Orange Alert (Heavy to Very Heavy Rainfall):
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Districts: Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Balasore
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Wind Speeds: 30–40 km/h
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Risks: Flooding in low-lying areas, waterlogging, storm damage
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Yellow Alert (Thunderstorms, Heavy Showers, Gusty Winds):
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Rath Yatra Day – June 25: Dhenkanal, Angul, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati
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Next Day: Yellow alert extended to 17 districts, while Orange alert continues in Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj
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The IMD has urged district administrations to remain vigilant and make necessary preparations for possible disruptions during the sacred festival, particularly in areas prone to flooding and lightning strikes.
Authorities in Puri and other Rath Yatra observance areas are on high alert, coordinating to ensure safety of the devotees and minimize impact on the chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
