Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow weather warnings for 13 districts in Odisha due to the return of Kalbaisakhi, with alerts in effect until 7 PM on Monday. The warnings cover potential thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across multiple regions.
According to the IMD, moderate thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and surface winds of 40-50 kmph, along with light to moderate rainfall, are expected within the next three hours in parts of Rayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Bhadrak, Jharsuguda, and Bargarh districts. The weather agency has cautioned that strong winds may cause minor damage to unsecured structures, banana trees, and standing crops.
Additionally, light to moderate thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph, along with light to moderate rain, are likely in parts of Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Sonepur, Koraput, and Kendrapada during the same period.
The IMD has urged residents in the affected districts to stay vigilant, monitor weather updates, and seek shelter in safer locations to avoid lightning strikes and other hazards. Authorities have advised taking precautions to minimize risks to life and property.