Low pressure to trigger 1-week-long rain spell in Odisha starting today: IMD

A week-long spell of rain is set to begin across Odisha from today, April 8, as a low-pressure area that developed over the south Bay of Bengal intensified and moved northwestward.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this system is likely to bring light to moderate showers in several regions of the state, providing much-needed relief from soaring temperatures.

Cyclonic System Drives the Change in Weather

The IMD reported that the low-pressure area formed under the influence of a cyclonic circulation observed yesterday.

This system, located initially over the central part of the south Bay of Bengal, has begun shifting towards the west-central Bay and is expected to progress north-west over the next 48 hours.

As a result, the likelihood of widespread rainfall has significantly increased across Odisha.

ALSO READ: Odisha’s mega drinking water projects in limbo amid peak summer heat

Affected Districts and Weather Conditions

Today, coastal Odisha, along with the Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar districts, is expected to receive light rainfall. From tomorrow, the rain belt will expand to include Sundargarh, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, and Nabarangpur.

The showers are likely to be accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds, with the peak activity forecast around the 10th and 11th of April.

The rain spell is anticipated to persist through the 12th and 13th as well, contributing to a dip in daytime temperatures by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius, the Regional Meteorological Department stated.

Heatwave Eases but Temperatures Remain High in Several Areas

Despite the anticipated rains, many areas in Odisha experienced severe heat on Monday. Angul emerged as the hottest location with a searing 42.7 degrees Celsius, followed by Boudh (41.8), Jharsuguda (41.6), and Titilagarh (41.5). Further, Sonepur, Hirakud, and Sambalpur also recorded temperatures above 40°C.

The ongoing weather shift is expected to provide some respite, though it is pertinent to note that the IMD urges residents to stay cautious following its warnings, especially in areas prone to lightning and gusty winds during thunderstorms.