Odisha is expected to experience fluctuating weather conditions over the next seven days, with several districts likely to witness light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning activity and heatwave conditions, according to the latest forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The weather department has issued orange and yellow warnings for multiple districts as changing weather patterns are expected to bring gusty winds, humid conditions and intense daytime heat across different parts of the state.
Orange Warning Issued For Thunderstorms In Several Districts
For Day 1, valid till 8:30 am on May 25, light to moderate rain or thunderstorms are very likely at one or two places in Odisha.
The IMD has issued an orange warning for districts including Balasore, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati and Ganjam.
These districts are likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty surface winds reaching speeds of 50-60 kmph during afternoon and evening hours.
Heatwave Conditions Likely In Western Odisha
The IMD has also forecast heatwave conditions at isolated places in districts such as Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Boudh and Balangir.
In addition, yellow warnings have been issued for districts including Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Sundargarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Subarnapur, Nuapada, Kandhamal, Puri, Khurda and Nayagarh.
These areas may witness thunderstorms with lightning, gusty winds of 40-50 kmph, warm night conditions and hot, humid weather.
Similar Weather Likely Till May 31
According to the forecast, similar weather conditions are expected to continue on Day 2 (May 25-26), with orange alerts remaining in force for thunderstorm-prone districts such as Balasore, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Gajapati and Ganjam.
Heatwave conditions are also likely to persist in Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Boudh and Balangir during this period.
From Day 3 to Day 5 (May 26-29), western Odisha districts are expected to continue experiencing heatwave conditions, while isolated thunderstorms with gusty winds may occur across northern and southern regions of the state.
For Day 6 and Day 7 (May 29-31), isolated thunderstorms accompanied by winds of up to 40-50 kmph are likely across northern, central and southern Odisha under yellow warning conditions.
IMD Advises Precautionary Measures
The India Meteorological Department has advised residents to remain cautious during peak heatwave hours between 11 am and 3 pm.
People have been urged to stay hydrated, wear light-coloured cotton clothes, avoid direct exposure to sunlight and ensure proper care for livestock during extreme heat conditions.
Residents in thunderstorm-prone districts have also been advised to stay indoors during lightning activity, avoid standing under trees or in open fields, secure loose structures and unplug electrical appliances during storms to minimise risks.
Officials warned that strong winds in orange alert districts could cause minor damage to vulnerable structures, plantations and standing crops.
