The southwest monsoon remains active over Odisha, bringing overcast skies, light rainfall, and favourable conditions for thunderstorms across several parts of the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning at various locations until July 12, urging residents in vulnerable districts to remain cautious.
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, the prevailing monsoon conditions are expected to sustain thunderstorm activity over the next few days. The weather office has identified Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar as the districts most likely to experience thunderstorms with lightning over the next three days.
For Thursday, the IMD has issued a thunderstorm and lightning alert for six districts—Sundargarh, Angul, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, and Bhadrak. These districts are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by gusty winds, thunderstorms, and lightning during the day.
The weather agency has also predicted intermittent rainfall and thunderstorm activity across northern Odisha for the next four days as the active southwest monsoon continues to influence weather patterns over the region. While widespread heavy rainfall is not expected, isolated areas may witness brief but intense spells of rain accompanied by lightning.
In view of the forecast, the IMD has advised residents to remain vigilant during thunderstorm activity. People have been urged to avoid open fields, refrain from taking shelter under trees, stay away from electric poles and water bodies during lightning, and follow weather advisories issued by local authorities and the district administration.
Farmers and those engaged in outdoor activities have also been advised to monitor weather updates before venturing into fields, as sudden thunderstorms could pose safety risks despite benefiting agricultural operations.
The ongoing monsoon activity is expected to provide relief from high temperatures across many parts of Odisha while supporting kharif crop cultivation by maintaining adequate soil moisture. However, authorities have stressed the importance of observing lightning safety measures, as thunderstorms remain one of the leading weather-related hazards during the monsoon season.
