IMD Issues Yellow Warning for 20 Odisha Districts as Monsoon Intensifies

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall across Odisha, warning that over half the state’s districts will see moderate to heavy showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds over the next few days.

A Yellow Warning has been issued for 20 districts — including Gajapati, Ganjam, Nayagarh, Puri, Khordha, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Angul, Dhenkanal, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Deogarh, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Jharsuguda, and Sundargarh — with rain activity expected to persist until at least August 8.

Wind speeds of 30–40 kmph are likely, along with lightning and intense spells of rain that could cause waterlogging, traffic disruption, and minor damage to weak structures. Authorities have urged fishermen and residents in low-lying or vulnerable areas to stay indoors and remain cautious.

The IMD attributes the heavy rainfall to active monsoon conditions and moisture inflow from the Bay of Bengal. While the rains may boost agriculture and groundwater recharge, the risk of localised flooding and lightning strikes remains.