Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Kandhamal district, warning of a severe thunderstorm with lightning, hail, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 60-70 kmph.
As per the nowcast warning issued by the IMD at 2:40 pm, the storm is expected to hit the district within the next two hours, bringing moderate to intense rainfall.
Residents are advised to take immediate action and seek shelter in sturdy structures, avoiding trees and electric poles. Farming operations should be temporarily suspended during the storm.
Additionally, an orange alert has been issued for Nayagarh, Cuttack, and Khurda districts, warning of moderate thunderstorms with lightning, hail, and winds reaching 50-60 kmph.
Residents in these areas are advised to be prepared and keep a watch on the weather for worsening conditions.
Potential damage from the storm may include damage to thatched huts and loose structures, minor damage to power and communication lines, water logging in low-lying areas, damage to standing crops, banana, papaya trees, and orchards.
