Sambalpur, Odisha — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rain and thunderstorms across Odisha for the next five days, with Sambalpur among the districts likely to experience inclement weather.

Background

The IMD’s forecast serves as a warning to residents of Odisha, particularly those in districts that have received orange and yellow warnings. Odisha is prone to cyclones, floods and droughts, and the department’s warning system is designed to alert residents and authorities to potential severe weather, allowing necessary precautions to be taken.

According to the latest bulletin, light to moderate rain or thundershower activity is very likely to occur at one or two places across all districts on Day 1 (valid till 08:30 GMT on 10 May). The IMD has sounded an Orange Warning for the districts of Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Balasore and Bhadrak, where thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hail and strong surface winds reaching 50–60 km/h are very likely during the afternoon and evening hours.

A Yellow Warning has been issued for a large number of districts, including Sambalpur, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Deogarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Sonepur, Boudh, Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri, where thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds of 40–50 km/h are expected.

On Day 2 (10–11 May), the weather activity is expected to continue across Odisha with light to moderate rainfall likely at isolated places. The IMD has maintained a Yellow Warning across most districts, predicting thunderstorms with lightning and wind speeds of 40–50 km/h in coastal, northern and western districts.

Community Impact

The forecasted severe weather is likely to affect daily life, especially in rural areas. The IMD’s warnings are intended to help authorities and residents prepare, thereby reducing the risk of casualties and property damage. The Odisha government and local bodies are expected to implement precautionary measures, such as securing loose objects, clearing drainage channels and suspending outdoor activities where necessary. Residents are advised to stay informed about the latest forecasts and to follow guidance from local officials.

What Happens Next

The IMD’s forecast provides a timely alert for residents to take necessary precautions. The next five days are critical, with the potential for further severe weather events. Residents should remain alert and comply with instructions from local authorities to ensure their safety. The IMD will continue to monitor conditions and issue updates as required.