Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds across Odisha over the next several days, influenced by an upper-air cyclonic circulation over the west-central Bay of Bengal off the south coastal Andhra Pradesh coast.
According to meteorologists, the system located at around 1.5 km above mean sea level is significantly affecting weather patterns in the region. Meanwhile, another similar system that earlier existed over north Odisha has weakened, though unstable atmospheric conditions continue to persist across the state.
Thunderstorm Activity Expected Across Odisha
For Day 1 (April 6), light to moderate rainfall or thunderstorms are very likely to occur at one or two places in all districts of Odisha.
The IMD has issued an Orange Warning for Mayurbhanj, Balasore and Bhadrak districts, where thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 50–60 kmph are expected, particularly during afternoon and evening hours.
At the same time, a Yellow Warning has been issued for several districts including:
- Cuttack
- Jagatsinghpur
- Puri
- Khorda
- Nayagarh
- Ganjam
In these areas, thunderstorms with wind speeds ranging from 30–50 kmph may occur.
Weather Outlook for the Next Few Days
Day 2 (April 6–7):
Thunderstorm activity is likely to continue across many parts of Odisha. The Yellow warning remains in place for northern, coastal and southern districts, including Khorda and Nabarangpur, where gusty winds of 30–50 kmph may occur.
Day 3 (April 7–8):
Weather conditions are expected to intensify again, with the IMD issuing an Orange warning for Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore and Bhadrak. Several other districts including Khorda, Puri, Ganjam and Rayagada will remain under Yellow warning.
Day 4 (April 8–9):
Thunderstorm activity is likely to continue across the state, with the Orange warning persisting in northern districts. Districts such as Khorda and nearby regions will remain under Yellow alert.
Day 5 (April 9–10):
Thunderstorm activity may gradually reduce, though parts of coastal Odisha and districts including Khorda, Ganjam and Rayagada are still likely to experience lightning and gusty winds. Southern districts like Nabarangpur, Koraput and Malkangiri may also witness similar weather conditions.
Advisory for Residents and Farmers
The IMD has warned that strong winds and lightning could damage crops, banana plantations, and temporary structures, while loose objects may be blown away during storms.
Residents have been advised to:
- Stay indoors during thunderstorms
- Avoid sheltering under trees
- Keep away from water bodies
- Follow safety advisories issued by local authorities
Authorities have also urged people to remain alert and monitor weather updates, as unstable atmospheric conditions may trigger sudden thunderstorms in various parts of the state over the coming days.
