TV
Odisha is set to experience a much-needed break from the sweltering heat as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted rain and thunderstorms across various districts in the coming days.
The weather department has predicted light to moderate showers, along with isolated heavy rainfall in some regions, which will bring down temperatures by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius. This shift in weather conditions is expected to provide relief to residents who have been experiencing extreme heat, with some districts previously recording temperatures above 40°C.
Additionally, the rainfall is expected to replenish groundwater levels and improve air quality, which has been affected by prolonged dry and hot conditions.
The combination of cloud cover and rain will also help reduce humidity levels, offering further respite to those affected by the oppressive weather. Farmers, particularly those preparing for the Kharif cropping season, may also benefit from the early showers, which could help improve soil moisture levels.
Thunderstorms and Wind Alerts Issued
The IMD has issued a Yellow Warning for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across multiple regions.
The alerts are in place till April 5, with wind speeds expected to reach 50-60 kmph in some areas. The affected districts include Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangapur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Boudh, Angul, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhargarh, Rayagada, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Bargarh, Sonepur, and Bolangir over the next few days.
Drop in Temperature Expected
IMD officials have indicated that temperatures will drop slightly as a result of the rainfall. Several districts in southern Odisha, including Malkangiri and Koraput, will experience light showers from April 2.
The rain is expected to extend to Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, and Rayagada by April 3 and further spread to Gajapati and parts of western Odisha on April 4.
Odisha’s Ongoing Heatwave
Despite the expected rainfall, heatwave conditions have persisted in parts of the state. Boudh recorded the highest temperature at 41.8°C, followed closely by Jharsuguda (41.6°C) and Sambalpur (41.2°C).
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra has warned that April to June will be hotter than usual, with several regions expected to witness increased heatwave days. However, he clarified that El Niño conditions are not expected to impact the monsoon season.
Advisory for Residents
With thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy rainfall being predicted, residents have been advised to take the necessary precautions.
The IMD has urged people to stay indoors during lightning events, secure loose objects, and avoid venturing out during gusty winds. Those in vulnerable areas should prepare for possible disruptions in transportation and power supply, it added.
