Several parts of Odisha are expected to continue experiencing Kalbaisakhi-related weather activity over the coming days, with the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Bhubaneswar forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, rainfall and strong gusty winds till June 10. The weather department has issued an Orange Warning for eight districts and a Yellow Warning for several others as atmospheric conditions remain favourable for severe thunderstorm development.
According to the latest forecast, districts including Malkangiri, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Gajapati, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj and Balasore are likely to witness intense thunderstorm activity during the next 24 hours. These areas may experience lightning strikes accompanied by gusty surface winds reaching speeds of 50 to 60 kilometres per hour. Short-duration heavy rainfall may also occur at isolated places, potentially affecting normal life and outdoor activities.
The Meteorological Department has advised residents in the affected districts to remain alert, particularly during afternoon and evening hours when thunderstorm activity is expected to be most intense. People have been urged to avoid taking shelter under trees, stay away from electric poles and water bodies during lightning activity, and follow weather advisories issued by local authorities.
In addition to the Orange Warning districts, the weather office has issued a Yellow Warning for 15 other districts across the state. These areas are likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with speeds ranging between 40 and 50 kilometres per hour. While the intensity may be relatively lower than in the Orange Warning districts, weather conditions could still pose risks to agriculture, transportation and outdoor operations.
The continued Kalbaisakhi activity is being driven by favourable atmospheric conditions, including moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal and local heating over the interior regions of the state. Such conditions are common during the pre-monsoon season and often lead to the development of powerful thunderstorms across eastern India.
Weather experts note that Kalbaisakhi storms play a significant role in providing temporary relief from high temperatures by bringing rain and cooler winds. However, they can also cause localized damage to crops, trees, power infrastructure and temporary structures due to strong wind speeds and lightning strikes.
Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon continues its gradual advancement across the country. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported further progress of the monsoon over parts of the Arabian Sea, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The advancement of the monsoon is being closely monitored as meteorologists assess its likely impact on weather patterns across eastern India, including Odisha.
The state has already witnessed several rounds of thunderstorm activity over the past few weeks, bringing intermittent rainfall and fluctuating temperatures. Despite these weather systems, some coastal districts continue to experience hot and humid conditions, especially during periods of reduced rainfall.
The weather department expects thunderstorm activity to remain active across various parts of Odisha over the next few days. Residents are advised to stay updated with official weather bulletins, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions, and take necessary precautions against lightning and strong winds.
With Kalbaisakhi activity expected to persist till June 10 and the monsoon steadily advancing towards eastern India, Odisha is likely to witness a mix of thunderstorms, rainfall and changing weather conditions in the days ahead.
