Bhubaneswar: A severe spell of Kalbaishakhi (nor’wester) swept across Bhubaneswar on Thursday afternoon, bringing with it strong winds, hailstorms, thunder, and lightning, disrupting normal life in the capital city.
Dark clouds began gathering over the city around 4 PM, followed by gusty winds intensifying by 4:45 PM. Within minutes, the storm turned fierce, accompanied by moderate to heavy rainfall and a sharp drop in temperature due to cold winds. Wind speeds increased significantly during the downpour, causing damage in several areas.
Preliminary reports indicate that thatched houses in slum localities suffered damage, while large roadside hoardings were also affected by the strong winds. However, the full extent of damage is yet to be officially assessed.
Similar weather conditions were reported from Cuttack, where hailstorms lashed parts of the city. Thunder, lightning, and heavy rain led to waterlogging in low-lying areas, while some thatched houses were reportedly damaged.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that Kalbaishakhi activity is likely to continue affecting parts of Odisha during the last week of March. Gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph, along with lightning, thunder, and rainfall, are expected across several coastal, western, and southern districts.
In view of the forecast, the Office of the Special Relief Commissioner has issued a Yellow Warning for more than half of the state’s districts from March 26 to 28. District administrations have been directed to remain on alert and take necessary preparedness measures.
Authorities have advised residents to stay indoors or take shelter in safe locations during thunderstorms and to closely monitor weather updates. District officials have also been instructed to promptly report any damage caused by the storm.
