Odisha is grappling with a dual weather challenge as scorching heat blankets the interior regions, while a cyclonic circulation in the Bay of Bengal signals heavy rainfall along the coast.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Regional Meteorological Centre have issued yellow warnings for intense rainfall and thunderstorms across multiple districts, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in parts of the state.
On Sunday, Jharsuguda recorded a sweltering 40°C, with other interior districts like Bargarh, Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Sonepur, Boudh, and Nuapada expected to endure similar heatwave conditions until June 12.
The Regional Meteorological Centre forecasts that these areas will experience hot and humid weather for the next 24 hours, exacerbating discomfort for residents.
Meanwhile, a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal is set to intensify into a low-pressure system, likely triggering widespread rainfall across northern and southern Odisha. The IMD has issued a yellow warning for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, accompanied by gusty winds of 30-40 kmph, particularly in coastal districts. The alert covers districts like Malkangiri, Koraput, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar for Monday, with Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Ganjam, and Gajapati also under watch for humid conditions and potential rainfall.
Starting Tuesday, June 10, the weather is expected to shift dramatically, with 19 districts likely to experience thunderstorms and rain. By Wednesday, the warning extends to 24 districts, and on Thursday, nine districts remain on alert for similar conditions. Coastal areas, including Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, and Bhadrak, may see moderate to heavy rainfall, potentially easing the oppressive heat but posing risks of waterlogging and disruptions.
According to Regional Meteorological Centre scientist Sanjeev Dwivedi, rainfall will persist beyond June 12, particularly along the coast, where cloudy skies are expected to lower temperatures and reduce humidity. The impending low-pressure system in the northwest Bay of Bengal could move toward Odisha’s coast, bringing favourable conditions for agriculture but also raising concerns about potential flooding in low-lying areas.
Sunday’s weather across Odisha remained largely dry, with isolated light showers in some areas. However, the forecast for Monday includes light rain in select regions, escalating into more significant rainfall from Tuesday. The cyclonic activity is expected to create conducive conditions for farming, particularly in coastal regions, where the monsoon-like rainfall could benefit crops.
Residents in affected areas are advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid open fields, and take precautions against lightning. Coastal communities are urged to prepare for heavy rain, while those in interior regions should stay hydrated to combat the ongoing heatwave. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, with updates expected as the low-pressure system develops.
