Odisha has started receiving relief from the intense heatwave as Kalbaisakhi-induced rainfall begins across several parts of the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail over the next few days.
Rainfall Brings Relief to Odisha
Heavy showers have already started in Koraput, Sunabeda, and nearby areas, significantly cooling temperatures as of Wednesday evening. According to the IMD, the rainfall will continue until March 23, 2025, providing respite from soaring temperatures. Due to the ongoing showers, the temperature is expected to remain 3 to 5 degrees Celsius below normal.
IMD Issues Alerts for Several Districts
The IMD has issued an Orange Warning for six districts today, forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, and wind speeds between 30 and 40 km/h. Some areas may also experience hailstorms. From March 22, rainfall intensity is expected to increase, with widespread showers likely across the state.
The districts of Balasore, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sundargarh, and Jharsuguda are expected to witness thunderstorms with lightning. The IMD has also issued an Orange Warning for ten districts and a Yellow Warning for four districts on March 22.
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Special Relief Commissioner’s Advisory
The Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) has directed district collectors to remain alert and report any damage caused by thunderstorms, whirlwinds, hailstorms, or lightning. Authorities have been asked to take the necessary precautions to prevent any casualties or infrastructure damage.
Five-Day Forecast
March 20-21: Orange Warning for Bhadrak, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Sundargarh.
March 21-22: Orange Warning for Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Bhadrak, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda.
March 22-23: Orange Warning for Cuttack, Kendrapara, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Dhenkanal, Khordha, Nayagarh, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore.
March 23-24: Yellow Warning for multiple districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, and Khordha.