Sambalpur, Odisha — An upper air cyclonic circulation is currently affecting Odisha, positioned over the interior regions of the state at an altitude of 0.9 km above mean sea level, triggering thunderstorms and rainfall.

Background

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has been closely monitoring the weather system, which is expected to bring significant changes in the weather pattern across Odisha. This system has the potential to impact various districts, posing risks to residents. The IMD has issued multiple warnings for the coming days, urging preparedness and caution among residents.

The warnings are crucial in mitigating the potential impacts of the severe weather. The IMD’s monitoring and warnings aim to provide residents with timely information to take necessary precautions.

Community Impact

On May 5, light to moderate rain or thunderstorms are very likely to occur at a few places over the districts of Odisha. The IMD has issued an orange warning for districts such as Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Kandhamal, Ganjam, and Gajapati, indicating a high likelihood of thunderstorm activity with lightning, hailstorms, heavy rainfall, and gusty winds of up to 50-60 kmph. A yellow warning has been issued for other districts, including Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khordha, and Nayagarh, with expected gusty winds of up to 40-50 kmph.

Residents in these areas are advised to stay alert for the possibility of falling trees, damage to crops, and power outages. The impact of the severe weather includes the potential for lightning, hailstorms, heavy rainfall, gusty winds, falling trees, damage to crops, power outages, and localized flooding. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions, such as staying indoors, avoiding travel, and unplugging electrical appliances to prevent damage from potential lightning strikes.

What Happens Next

As the situation unfolds, residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities. The IMD will continue to monitor the weather system and provide updates as necessary. The severe weather is expected to continue, with rain and thunderstorms expected at a few places across Odisha. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.