The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a series of weather warnings for Odisha, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across several districts on Independence Day.
An orange warning has been declared for Rayagada and Gajapati districts, where intense rainfall accompanied by lightning and surface winds reaching 30–40 kmph is expected. A yellow warning has also been issued for over 20 districts, including Koraput, Malkangiri, Ganjam, Nayagarh, and Cuttack, indicating the likelihood of heavy rain and thunderstorms at isolated locations.
The IMD’s extended forecast suggests that the inclement weather will persist through August 19, with varying degrees of rainfall and thunderstorm activity across southern and coastal Odisha. Authorities have urged residents to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel during peak weather hours.
Emergency services and district administrations have been placed on standby to respond to any weather-related disruptions.
