The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Warning for six districts of Odisha, forecasting heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds over the next 24 hours. The warning comes as the southwest monsoon has fully advanced across the state, triggering widespread rain and unstable weather conditions in several regions.
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, districts under the Orange Warning include Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Nuapada and Kalahandi. These areas are likely to witness intense rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning activity and gusty surface winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour.
Heavy Rainfall Likely in Southern and Western Odisha
Meteorologists have warned that the affected districts may experience periods of heavy to very heavy rainfall, which could lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas, disruption of traffic movement and localized flooding in vulnerable pockets.
Residents have been advised to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity and avoid taking shelter under trees or venturing into open fields during lightning strikes. Farmers, fishermen and people engaged in outdoor activities have also been urged to monitor weather updates closely.
Yellow Warning for Several Other Districts
Apart from the six districts under Orange Warning, the weather office has issued Yellow Warnings for several other districts across Odisha. In total, weather alerts have been issued for a large part of the state as monsoon activity remains active.
The IMD said thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and moderate rainfall are likely at isolated places in multiple districts, while strong winds may affect both inland and coastal regions.
Coastal Odisha May Witness Unstable Weather
The weather system is also expected to influence coastal Odisha, bringing intermittent rain, cloudy skies and occasional thunderstorms over the coming days. District administrations have been asked to stay prepared for any weather-related emergencies and ensure necessary precautionary measures are in place.
Officials noted that the combination of active monsoon currents and favourable atmospheric conditions is contributing to the widespread rainfall activity being observed across the state.
Rainfall Alert Till June 28
The IMD has extended its heavy rainfall warning for Nuapada, Bolangir and Kalahandi districts until June 28. These districts are expected to continue receiving significant rainfall during the period, raising concerns about water accumulation and possible impacts on agriculture and transportation.
Weather experts have advised residents to stay updated through official forecasts and follow instructions issued by local authorities, particularly in areas prone to flooding and lightning incidents.
With the monsoon now fully established over Odisha, rainfall activity is expected to remain widespread in many districts over the next few days, bringing much-needed precipitation but also increasing the risk of weather-related disruptions.
