Several parts of Odisha are expected to receive heavy rainfall on Thursday as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather warnings for the entire state. While Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts have been placed under an Orange Alert for heavy rainfall, the remaining 28 districts are under a Yellow Alert, with forecasts of rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.
The weather department has advised residents to remain alert and follow official advisories as the active monsoon system continues to influence weather conditions across Odisha.
Orange Alert for Two Districts
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre, Bhubaneswar, heavy rainfall is likely at one or two places in:
- Keonjhar
- Mayurbhanj
These districts have been placed under an Orange Warning, indicating the possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall that could lead to waterlogging, poor visibility and localized flooding.
The remaining districts of Odisha are under a Yellow Warning, with forecasts of moderate rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places.
Thunderstorm and Lightning Warning for 13 Districts
The IMD has also issued an immediate three-hour nowcast warning for parts of 13 districts, predicting rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds.
The districts likely to be affected are:
- Keonjhar
- Kandhamal
- Mayurbhanj
- Balasore
- Bhadrak
- Gajapati
- Ganjam
- Koraput
- Nayagarh
- Jajpur
- Cuttack
- Kalahandi
- Kendrapara
Residents in these districts have been advised to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees, stay away from electric poles and water bodies, and follow instructions issued by local authorities.
Rainfall Expected to Ease on Friday
The IMD has indicated that rainfall activity is likely to reduce slightly on Friday, although several districts may continue to experience intermittent showers.
Rainfall alerts have been issued for 20 districts for Friday, while 10 districts are not expected to witness any significant weather activity.
Meteorologists said rainfall is likely to decrease particularly across southern and western Odisha, bringing some relief to areas that have experienced continuous rain over the past few days.
Authorities Urge Public to Remain Vigilant
With the monsoon remaining active, district administrations are closely monitoring the situation, especially in flood-prone and low-lying areas.
People have been urged to stay updated with the latest weather bulletins, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall and thunderstorms, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Emergency response teams have also been kept on alert in vulnerable districts to respond swiftly in case of any weather-related incidents.
