Odisha is set to experience a challenging weather pattern over the next seven days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting a combination of severe heatwave conditions, thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and hot-and-humid weather across multiple districts.
The latest weather bulletin has placed several districts under Red, Orange and Yellow warnings, indicating the possibility of extreme weather events ranging from dangerous heatwave conditions in western Odisha to intense thunderstorms in northern, central and coastal regions.
Red Warning Issued For Severe Heatwave
The IMD has issued a Red Warning — the highest category of weather alert — for Boudh and Balangir districts on Day 1 due to severe heatwave conditions at isolated places.
According to the weather office, the alert signals a serious health risk, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, elderly persons, pregnant women and people with existing medical conditions.
Residents have been advised to avoid outdoor movement during peak afternoon hours between 11 AM and 3 PM.
The heatwave situation is expected to continue over the next few days, with both districts remaining under Orange Warning from Day 2 to Day 3 as temperatures are likely to stay significantly above normal levels.
Officials warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat may lead to dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and severe heatstroke cases.
Orange Warning For Thunderstorms And Strong Winds
Apart from the heatwave alert, the IMD has also issued Orange Warnings for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 50-60 kmph in several districts.
Districts likely to witness intense thunderstorm activity include:
- Angul
- Dhenkanal
- Sundargarh
- Mayurbhanj
- Keonjhar
- Gajapati
- Ganjam
The thunderstorms are expected mainly during afternoon and evening hours.
Simultaneously, Nuapada and Kalahandi districts have been placed under Orange Warning for continuing heatwave conditions.
Warm Night Conditions In Western Odisha
The IMD has also warned of unusually high night-time temperatures in Balangir and Sambalpur districts.
Such “warm night conditions” are expected to provide little relief from daytime heat and may increase discomfort and health risks for residents.
Rainfall Activity Likely To Intensify
Despite the prevailing heatwave, light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorm activity are likely to occur in several districts during the next seven days.
From Day 4 onwards, rainfall activity is expected to intensify across northern, western and coastal Odisha, particularly in districts including:
- Sundargarh
- Sambalpur
- Keonjhar
- Mayurbhanj
- Balasore
- Bhadrak
- Jajpur
- Kendrapara
- Cuttack
- Ganjam
- Puri
- Khurda
Weather experts said pre-monsoon thundercloud activity may bring temporary relief from the heat in some areas, although humidity levels are expected to remain high.
Impact On Agriculture And Daily Life
The weather department warned that strong winds and thunderstorms could damage standing crops, horticulture plantations and banana trees in vulnerable districts.
There are also concerns over localised disruptions in transport services and electricity supply due to lightning and gusty winds.
Meanwhile, the severe heatwave may adversely impact outdoor workers, school-going children and elderly residents.
IMD Issues Safety Advisory
The IMD has urged people to take precautionary measures to avoid heat-related illnesses and thunderstorm-related hazards.
Residents have been advised to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, wear lightweight cotton clothing and schedule outdoor activities during cooler hours of the day.
During thunderstorms, people should avoid taking shelter under trees, stay away from electric poles and water bodies, disconnect electrical appliances and move indoors immediately if strong winds develop.
Authorities are closely monitoring the evolving weather situation and may issue further advisories if required.
