Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday issued a nowcast warning for Puri and adjoining areas, forecasting light to moderate rain with one or two intense spells of thundershower over the next 3 hours.
According to the bulletin issued at 09: 30 am today, the rain is very likely to continue over Puri district, including Puri Town. The warning comes as lakhs of devotees have gathered in Puri for the Rath Yatra, with rituals underway on the Bada Danda.
Given the weather conditions, IMD has urged devotees to remain alert during thunderstorm and lightning activity. The department has advised people to move to safe, permanent shelters immediately if heavy rain, lightning, or strong winds occur, and to avoid taking shelter under trees, electric poles, or temporary structures. Pilgrims have also been asked to wear non-slip footwear and to be cautious while walking on wet and slippery surfaces around the Grand Road.
