A powerful Kalbaisakhi storm swept through several districts of Odisha, with Mayurbhanj’s tribal-dominated regions facing the worst impact.
While the Nor’wester rains brought relief from the ongoing heatwave, the intense hailstorm caused widespread destruction.
The storm battered Bangripossi and surrounding areas, leaving over 50 people injured. Around 20 of the injured were shifted to Baripada Medical College and Hospital with serious injuries, including head trauma and fractures from the hailstones. Others with minor injuries received treatment at the Rairangpur Sub-Division Medical Centre.
The hailstorm, accompanied by strong winds, lasted over half an hour, damaging homes, vehicles, and public infrastructure. Asbestos rooftops were torn apart, and many cars and buses suffered shattered windows.
A passenger bus traveling from Bangripossi to Rairangpur had its windows smashed on one side. Fortunately, all 40 passengers escaped without injuries. However, the storm left a trail of damaged residential buildings and transport vehicles.
Multiple blocks under Rairangpur Sub-Division were hit hard by the storm, causing panic and distress among locals. Despite the destruction, officials confirmed that no fatalities were reported—a relief considering the intensity of the storm.
Authorities are assessing the extent of the damage, and relief measures are being initiated to support the affected communities.
