Odisha is expected to experience widespread rainfall over the next five days as an active cyclonic circulation continues to influence weather conditions across the state.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for Mayurbhanj district, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall on Friday, while all other districts remain under a Yellow Alert for thunderstorms, lightning, and moderate rainfall.
The weather department has advised residents, particularly those in vulnerable and low-lying areas, to remain cautious as the state prepares for an extended spell of wet weather.
Orange Alert for Mayurbhanj, Yellow Warning Across Odisha
According to the IMD, Mayurbhanj is likely to receive intense rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. The remaining 29 districts are expected to witness light to moderate rain with isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds.
Authorities have urged people to stay updated with official weather advisories and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall and lightning.
Another Cyclonic Circulation Likely by August 12
The IMD has also forecast the development of another upper-air cyclonic circulation over the northwest Bay of Bengal around August 12. This weather system is expected to enhance rainfall activity, particularly over northern and coastal Odisha, where heavy to very heavy showers are likely.
The fresh system could further intensify rainfall across several districts early next week.
IMD Explains Current Weather System
Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre Director Manorama Mohanty said an upper-air cyclonic circulation is currently active over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Odisha-Gangetic West Bengal coast. Another cyclonic circulation is present over south Gangetic West Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh, creating favourable conditions for widespread rainfall across Odisha.
She said the state is likely to receive light to moderate rainfall, while one or two districts, including Mayurbhanj, may experience heavy to very heavy downpours.
Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds Expected
Apart from heavy rainfall, the IMD has warned of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty surface winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph in isolated areas.
Residents have been advised to avoid open fields during thunderstorms, take shelter in safe locations, and monitor official weather updates for the latest warnings.
With multiple weather systems becoming active over the Bay of Bengal, Odisha is expected to remain under the influence of rain-bearing conditions through the coming week.
