IMD issues yellow alert for Odisha, heavy rain and thunderstorms likely

Bhubaneswar, Sept 16: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across several parts of Odisha in the coming days. Surface winds are likely to blow at speeds of 30–40 kmph, accompanied by lightning, raising concerns over safety in multiple districts.

For September 18, the IMD has issued a yellow warning for six districts in northern and western Odisha—Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj—where heavy downpours and thunderstorms are expected. In addition, 22 other districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Gajapati, may also witness thunderstorms with lightning.

The forecast for September 19 indicates similar weather conditions in coastal and southern belts such as Kendrapara, Nayagarh, Rayagada, Koraput, Kandhamal, and Boudh. On September 20, districts including Balasore, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj have again been placed under alert.

Looking ahead to September 21, thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds are likely in districts such as Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Deogarh, Koraput, Malkangiri, and Rayagada, along with several coastal areas. The regional office has advised people to remain cautious, avoid open spaces during lightning, and follow safety guidelines.