Bhubaneswar: With the grand Puri Rath Yatra just around the corner, the India Meteorological Department has predicted light to moderate rain in the Holy City in the next six hours.
According to the nowcast warning issued by Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar at 10:00 am today, cloudy sky with the possibility of light to moderate rain is likely over Puri for the next six hours.
The temperature in Puri is expected to remain between 29 and 31 degrees Celsius while humidity will stay very high at 88 to 98 per cent.
Very light rain has already been recorded this morning, with 0.6 mm of rainfall registered till 8:30 am.
Given the huge influx of pilgrims expected in Puri for the Rath Yatra, the weather department has issued important safety advisories. Pilgrims have been urged to remain alert during any lightning and thunderstorm activity. Devotees should immediately move to a safe and permanent shelter during heavy showers. They have been advised to avoid taking shelter under trees, electric poles, or temporary structures.
The IMD has also requested devotees to wear non-slip footwear and exercise caution on wet roads, particularly around the Grand Road or Bada Danda.
Elderly pilgrims, children, and people with medical conditions have been advised to avoid prolonged exposure to rain and crowded areas. Authorities have further suggested keeping mobile phones charged and protecting valuables and important documents in waterproof covers.
