The weather in Odisha is expected to change significantly as the festive season approaches.
The regional office of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) located in Bhubaneswar has predicted a new round of rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, across various regions of the state beginning on October 14 and lasting for five days.
Yellow Warning and Affected Districts
The IMD has issued a yellow warning for light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms affecting numerous districts. Until the morning of October 15, areas such as Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khordha, and Nayagarh can expect intermittent rain.
These wet conditions, featuring thunderstorms, lightning, and surface winds that may reach speeds of 40 km/h, are predicted to last through Sunday, October 18. Coastal and southern districts, including Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khordha, and Nayagarh, are particularly at risk of lightning strikes and strong winds. However, conditions are anticipated to improve by Monday, with rainfall expected to decrease and clearer skies returning.
Monsoon Withdrawal and Low-Pressure System
Dr. Rajashree VPM, a meteorologist at the regional center, noted that the southwest monsoon is currently withdrawing from the state. The monsoon has completely receded from western and interior districts such as Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Sonepur, Bargarh, Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur, while partial withdrawal is occurring in other areas.
At the same time, a low-pressure system has developed over the southeast Bay of Bengal. The IMD predicts this system will move west-northwestward and strengthen into a depression, impacting weather patterns not only in Odisha but also in adjacent coastal regions. Although this rain may cause temporary inconveniences, it offers much-needed relief to residents following a period of high humidity.
