Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued urgent weather warnings for multiple districts in Odisha, effective from 7:00 PM on Monday, due to severe thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds expected to impact the region within the next two hours.
A Red Warning (Take Action) has been issued for Bhadrak, Mayurbhanj, Dhenkanal, Jajpur, and Cuttack districts, where severe thunderstorms with squall winds reaching 60-70 kmph, lightning, and moderate to intense rainfall are likely within the next two hours. The IMD warns of potential damage to thatched huts, minor disruptions to power and communication lines due to falling branches, waterlogging in low-lying areas, and damage to standing crops, banana, papaya trees, and orchards. Residents are urged to seek shelter in sturdy (pucca) buildings, avoid trees, suspend farming activities, and stay clear of electric poles and wires during the event.
An Orange Warning (Be Prepared) has been issued for Khordha, Nayagarh, Balasore, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Ganjam, Gajapati, Nuapada, Balangir, Bargarh, and Boudh districts. These areas may experience moderate thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph with moderate rainfall within the next two to three hours. Minor damage to loose or unsecured structures, banana trees, and standing crops is possible. The public is advised to monitor weather conditions closely and be prepared to move to safer locations if conditions worsen.
A Yellow Warning (Be Aware) applies to Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Sonepur, Koraput, Kandhamal, Angul, Deogarh, Keonjhar, Jharsuguda, and Rayagada districts, where light to moderate thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph with light to moderate rain are expected. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and seek safer places to avoid lightning strikes.
The Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar has urged the public to take these warnings seriously and prioritize safety to minimize risks to life and property during this severe weather event.
