Bhubaneswar: Odisha is likely to experience largely favourable weather conditions during the Durga Puja festivities this year, although several districts may receive light to moderate rainfall over the coming days. According to official weather sources, a low-pressure area is likely to develop over the southeast Bay of Bengal around October 13, potentially bringing cloudy skies and rainfall to parts of the State.
The developing weather system is expected to influence Odisha’s weather from October 13 and 14, with light to moderate rain likely in several areas over the subsequent days. The forecast may bring some relief to Durga Puja organisers, committees and devotees preparing for celebrations across the State.
Low Pressure Area Likely Over Southeast Bay of Bengal
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a cyclonic circulation over the South Andaman Sea and adjoining areas is persisting and extending up to 5.8 kilometres above mean sea level.
Under its influence, a low-pressure area is likely to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal around October 13. However, unfavourable atmospheric and oceanic conditions are expected to limit the system’s further intensification.
The weather system is likely to bring cloudy conditions to Odisha on October 13 and 14, followed by spells of light to moderate rainfall in several parts of the State.
Coastal Odisha May Receive Rain Between October 16 and 19
Several coastal districts of Odisha are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall between October 16 and 19, according to the forecast.
The districts that may receive rain include:
- Balasore
- Bhadrak
- Kendrapara
- Jagatsinghpur
- Jajpur
- Cuttack
- Khordha
- Ganjam
- Gajapati
Weather conditions may remain cloudy during the initial phase of the system, with rainfall activity expected to ease around October 20. Dry weather is likely to return to many places thereafter.
However, rainfall intensity and timing may vary from one district to another depending on local weather conditions.
Durga Puja Celebrations May See Mostly Favourable Weather
The forecast of light to moderate rainfall, rather than a significant intensification of the low-pressure system, offers some reassurance to Durga Puja organisers and devotees across Odisha.
Puja committees are preparing pandals and arrangements for the festive period, while devotees are expected to visit puja venues for prayers and celebrations. Mostly favourable conditions could help these activities continue, although intermittent rain may affect outdoor programmes in some locations.
Organisers and visitors should remain prepared for changing weather, particularly in coastal districts where rainfall has been forecast during the October 16–19 period.
IMD Monitors Monsoon Withdrawal and Northeast Monsoon Onset
In its evening bulletin, the IMD’s regional centre stated that conditions were becoming favourable for the further withdrawal of the Southwest Monsoon from the remaining parts of the country. The simultaneous commencement of northeast monsoon rainfall over the southern peninsula was also expected during the next two to three days.
The bulletin noted that the upper-air cyclonic circulation over the South Andaman Sea and neighbouring areas continued to persist, extending up to 5.8 kilometres above mean sea level.
The IMD said the circulation could lead to the formation of a low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal around October 13.
People across Odisha are advised to follow official IMD updates for the latest district-wise weather forecasts, especially during the Durga Puja festivities.
