Odisha is set to witness contrasting weather conditions over the next seven days, with severe heatwave conditions persisting across western districts even as thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are expected in coastal, northern and southern parts of the state.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued Red, Orange and Yellow warnings for multiple districts till June 1, cautioning residents about the dual impact of extreme heat and unstable weather activity.
Red Warning Issued For Severe Heatwave In Western Odisha
The IMD has issued its highest-level “Take Action” Red Warning for Sambalpur and Balangir districts for the next three days due to the possibility of simultaneous heatwave and warm night conditions.
Officials said such weather conditions can significantly increase health risks as temperatures remain extremely high even during nighttime, providing little relief to residents.
Boudh district has also been placed under Red Warning for severe heatwave conditions till May 28.
The prolonged heatwave is expected to particularly affect infants, elderly people, pregnant women and individuals suffering from pre-existing health conditions. Authorities have advised people to avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, remain hydrated and stay indoors whenever possible.
Orange Alert For Thunderstorms And Heatwave
An Orange Alert has been issued for Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts on May 26 due to the likelihood of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 50-60 kmph.
The IMD warned that strong winds may cause localised disruptions, damage weak structures and uproot trees in vulnerable areas.
Meanwhile, heatwave conditions are also likely to continue under Orange Alert in districts including Jharsuguda, Subarnapur, Nuapada and Kalahandi over the next several days.
By May 29 and 30, thunderstorm activity is expected to intensify across interior Odisha, with gusty winds likely in districts such as Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Angul, Dhenkanal and Kandhamal.
Yellow Warning For Coastal And Southern Odisha
The IMD has also issued a widespread Yellow Warning for several coastal and southern districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput and Malkangiri.
These districts are likely to witness thunderstorms with lightning, gusty winds ranging from 30-50 kmph, hot and humid weather conditions and isolated rainfall activity during afternoon and evening hours.
The coastal belt is expected to remain uncomfortable due to persistently high humidity levels despite intermittent rain.
Rainfall Activity Likely To Increase From May 29
According to weather experts, pre-monsoon activity is gradually strengthening across Odisha and may bring temporary relief from extreme temperatures in some regions by the end of the week.
From May 29 onwards, light to moderate rain or thunderstorms are likely at several places across the state instead of isolated pockets.
However, western Odisha is expected to continue experiencing severe heatwave conditions for at least the next four to five days.
