Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms likely on Rath Yatra in Odisha; IMD issues alert for multiple districts

Odisha’s iconic Rath Yatra celebrations are expected to be drenched in rain this year, as the Regional Meteorological Centre has predicted widespread rainfall across the state from Wednesday till June 28.

The forecast attributes the upcoming spell of intense weather to a cyclonic circulation formed over the Bay of Bengal, which is likely to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across several districts.

As per the latest bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), an Orange Alert has been sounded for three northern districts — Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, and Balasore — warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall. These areas may also experience strong surface winds blowing at speeds of 30 to 40 km per hour, making the weather potentially hazardous, especially in low-lying and flood-prone regions.

In addition to these districts, a Yellow Alert has been issued for 16 other districts spread across coastal and western Odisha, cautioning residents about possible heavy showers and thunderstorms. The alerts aim to warn local administrations and the public to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures, especially in areas vulnerable to waterlogging and lightning strikes.

For tomorrow, the IMD has renewed the orange alert for Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj, while expanding the yellow alert coverage to 17 more districts. The continuous alerts suggest that the weather system is likely to persist over the region for several days, coinciding with key rituals and processions of the Rath Yatra.

Yellow alert for thunderstorms, heavy rain and gusty winds has been issued for the districts of Dhenkanal, Angul, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati on Rath Yatra day.

The IMD has concerned district administrations to be prepared for rain-related disruptions during the grand procession of Lord Jagannath and His siblings in Puri and other regions where the Yatra is observed.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and preparations are being made to ensure safety and minimize disruptions during the sacred festival. Devotees and pilgrims have also been urged to carry rain protection and follow safety protocols as they gather to witness one of India’s most celebrated spiritual events.