Odisha has registered a rainfall amount that is 26% higher than the normal levels this monsoon season, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to forecast a significant amount of rain across the state for the next five days.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Bhubaneswar has issued an Orange Warning specifically for Mayurbhanj district, while a Yellow Warning has been declared for various other districts as heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds are anticipated until August 10.
Orange Warning for Mayurbhanj
The IMD indicates that Mayurbhanj may face heavy rainfall in one or two locations this Wednesday, which led to the issuance of the Orange Warning.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant since the intense rains could cause waterlogging and temporary disruptions in susceptible areas.
Yellow Warning Issued for 13 Districts
A Yellow Warning has been extended to the following districts:
- Sundargarh
- Keonjhar
- Mayurbhanj
- Kandhamal
- Nabarangpur
- Rayagada
- Koraput
- Malkangiri
- Nuapada
- Jharsuguda
- Ganjam
- Gajapati
- Kalahandi
These areas are likely to experience isolated heavy downpours, along with thunderstorms and lightning.
Rain Forecast Till August 10
The IMD anticipates that Odisha will see scattered to fairly widespread rainfall continuing through August 10.
On August 7 and 8, isolated heavy rain is expected in various districts in southern Odisha, leading to further Yellow Warnings.
Weather conditions are expected to differ from one district to another, with intermittent moderate to heavy rainfall on the horizon.
Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds Expected
According to Manorama Mohanty, Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, light to moderate rains are anticipated across many areas of the state over the next 24 hours.
She noted that some regions may also see:
- Thunderstorms with lightning
- Surface winds gusting between 30-40 kmph
- Heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated spots, particularly in Mayurbhanj
Isolated heavy rainfall is also predicted for Malkangiri, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Kandhamal, Nuapada, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, and Keonjhar.
IMD Advises People to Stay Alert
The IMD has called on residents, especially those in low-lying and flood-prone areas, to exercise caution during the expected rain.
Heavy rainfall may lead to:
- Waterlogging in urban and low-lying regions
- Lower visibility during intense showers
- Localized traffic delays
- Temporary inconveniences due to thunderstorms and strong winds
Citizens are encouraged to stay updated with weather news from local authorities and to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall periods.
