The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a detailed seven-day weather forecast warning of thunderstorms, rainfall and rising humidity across Odisha, with several districts placed under a yellow alert due to potentially adverse weather conditions.
According to the forecast starting April 26, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thundershowers is expected at isolated locations across southern, northern and coastal districts. Areas likely to be affected include Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Ganjam, Gajapati, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar. While many parts of the state may initially experience dry conditions, weather activity is expected to intensify gradually over the coming days.
The IMD has cautioned that thunderstorms during this period may be accompanied by lightning and gusty surface winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour. These conditions are most likely to occur during afternoon and evening hours, posing risks to outdoor activities, agriculture and weak infrastructure.
At the same time, coastal districts such as Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri and Khordha are expected to experience persistent hot and humid weather. This combination of heat and moisture is likely to create uncomfortable and sultry conditions for residents, even as rainfall activity begins in other regions.
By April 27 and 28, thunderstorm activity is expected to continue across southern districts including Koraput, Malkangiri, Rayagada and Gajapati, along with northern districts like Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar. From April 28 onwards, the weather is predicted to become more active, with rainfall and thunderstorms occurring at more locations across South Odisha and isolated areas in the north.
During this phase, wind speeds may increase further, reaching up to 40 to 50 kilometres per hour in districts such as Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Rayagada and Koraput. Such strong winds, combined with lightning, could lead to localized damage, including fallen trees, disruptions in power supply and risks to life and property.
The IMD forecast indicates that this pattern will continue through the end of April and into early May. By April 30 and May 1, several districts including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Sundargarh, Koraput, Malkangiri and Kalahandi are likely to experience widespread thunderstorm activity with lightning and gusty winds.
Between May 1 and May 2, light to moderate rainfall or thunderstorms are expected at one or two places across a wide stretch of the state, including districts such as Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar. However, some areas may still remain dry during this period.
Despite the rainfall, the IMD has emphasized that hot and humid conditions will persist, especially in coastal regions, adding to discomfort levels. The department has advised residents to remain cautious, particularly during peak thunderstorm hours, avoid open spaces during lightning and stay updated with official weather advisories.
Overall, the forecast points to a transition from scattered rainfall to more widespread thunderstorm activity across Odisha, while heat and humidity continue to dominate several parts of the state. Authorities have urged people to take necessary precautions to minimize risks during this period of unstable weather conditions.