The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall warning for several parts of Odisha over the next 48 hours, owing to an active cyclonic circulation over southern Bangladesh and adjoining regions.
According to the IMD, this system is expected to cause moderate to heavy rainfall, especially in the northern interior and coastal districts. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty surface winds ranging from 30 to 35 kmph are also forecast.
Districts under close watch include Keonjhar, Kalahandi, Nuapada, Mayurbhanj, and Bolangir, where wind speeds may increase to 40 kmph in some areas, accompanied by intense downpours. Coastal Odisha and at least 15 nearby districts are also likely to experience thunderstorms and lightning.
In the past 24 hours, Thuamul Rampur in Kalahandi recorded the state’s highest rainfall at 55 mm.
Bhubaneswar MeT Centre Director Manorama Mohanty stated that an upper-air cyclonic circulation over Gangetic West Bengal and nearby areas is influencing the weather conditions in Odisha. As a result, many regions are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall, while a few may experience isolated heavy rain with thunderstorms and lightning.
Authorities have advised the public to remain alert, limit travel during peak downpour hours, and avoid flood-prone or low-lying areas. Fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea during this period.
