Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a special nowcast warning forecasting cloudy skies with light rain in the next six hours amid the ongoing Puri Ratha Yatra.
The bulletin released at 07 am will remain valid for the next six hours.
As per the forecast, Puri is likely to experience generally cloudy skies with light rain during this period. The maximum temperature is expected to hover between 28°C and 30°C, while relative humidity will remain very high, ranging between 87% and 97%.
The realised weather recorded earlier in the day showed a temperature of 28.0°C at 05:30 am with 95% humidity. As much as 6.0 mm of rainfall was recorded in the 24-hour period ending at 05:30 am today.The IMD has urged pilgrims and devotees to exercise caution due to the prevailing moist and unstable weather conditions. Pilgrims have been advised to remain alert for lightning and thunderstorm activity.
In the event of heavy rain, lightning, or strong winds, they should immediately move to a safe permanent shelter and avoid taking refuge under trees, electric poles, or any temporary structures.
The advisory further recommends that devotees stay well hydrated, carry drinking water, and wear non-slip footwear while navigating wet and slippery roads, particularly around the Grand Road (Bada Danda).
Elderly persons, children, and individuals with medical conditions are advised to avoid prolonged exposure in rain and crowded areas.
