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Starting today, most parts of Odisha were under the grip of Kalbaisakhi rainfall. The state capital of Bhubaneswar, along with several interior districts like Koraput and Sundargarh, received much-needed respite from a severe heatwave. However, this seasonal rainfall has a lot to know behind its name.
Kalbaisakhi, a term derived from Bengali, translates to 'calamity of Baisakh'—the first month of the Bengali calendar (April to May). These are violent, short-lived thunderstorms that strike Odisha and other eastern Indian states during the pre-monsoon period.
Known scientifically as Nor'westers, they originate due to the collision of warm, moist air from the Bay of Bengal with dry, cool air from the northwest, creating unstable atmospheric conditions.
How Does it Differ from the Monsoon?
Unlike the monsoon, which brings sustained rainfall over months, Kalbaisakhi storms are intense but brief. Lasting for an hour or less, they bring sudden downpours, gusty winds (often exceeding 100 km/h), and hailstorms.
Kalbaisakhi storms are highly localized, forming rapidly and dissipating just as quickly, making them unpredictable compared to the systematic advance of monsoonal rains.
ALSO READ: Kalbaisakhi storm batters several Odisha districts, over 50 people injured
Agricultural Impact: A Boon and a Bane
For Odisha’s farmers, Kalbaisakhi presents both benefits and challenges:
Beneficial Aspects: Early-season crops like jute, paddy, and tea benefit from the rain, which helps in soil moisture retention and plant growth.
Destructive Aspects: Strong winds and hailstorms damage mango orchards, standing paddy, and other crops, leading to economic losses.
The Role in Local Climate and Ecosystem
Kalbaisakhi serves as a cooling mechanism, reducing summer temperatures before the monsoon arrives. It replenishes water sources, helping sustain ecosystems in dry months. However, its unpredictability often causes damage to property, livestock, and human life.
ALSO READ: Kalbaisakhi to bring heavy rainfall today, severe thunderstorm alert issued for Odisha
Challenges in Forecasting and Aviation Disruptions
Despite advances in meteorology, predicting the precise location and intensity of these storms remains difficult. Their sudden formation can cause disruptions to flights and river navigation, making them hazardous for transport and aviation industries.
Kalbaisakhi, though destructive, is an integral part of Odisha’s climatic pattern. Its ability to bring both relief and devastation makes it a phenomenon that demands respect and preparedness.
