The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued fresh warnings for Odisha, predicting heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across multiple districts until May 19.
While the state continues to grapple with sweltering heat and high humidity, incoming weather disturbances are expected to bring brief relief alongside turbulent conditions.
An orange alert has been issued for Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Koraput, Rayagada, and Malkangiri, where thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds reaching speeds of up to 50-60 kmph are expected. These areas may experience heavy downpours alongside gusty winds, posing risks of waterlogging and damage to infrastructure.
Despite cloudy skies, coastal regions—including Bhubaneswar—are enduring relentless humidity. The IMD forecasts that temperatures will remain largely unchanged over the next week, prolonging discomfort for residents. Meanwhile, warnings remain in effect for Gajapati, Ganjam, Khordha, Nayagarh, Puri, Cuttack, and Jagatsinghpur due to extreme humid conditions.
The alarming forecast follows tragic incidents reported yesterday, where lightning strikes resulted in 10 fatalities across different districts. Koraput recorded three deaths, Ganjam and Jajpur saw two casualties each, while Dhenkanal and Gajapati reported one fatality each.
Authorities urge residents to remain cautious, particularly in districts under active weather warnings. People are advised to stay indoors during lightning storms, avoid open fields, and take necessary precautions to minimise risks during extreme conditions.
