The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued fresh warnings for Kalbaisakhi storms across Odisha, predicting thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, hail, and strong winds in multiple districts.
Several regions, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, and Sundargarh, are under an Orange Warning, urging residents to brace for severe weather conditions. Other parts of the state fall under a Yellow Warning, indicating possible thunderstorms with wind speeds reaching 50 km/h.
Before the arrival of the Kalbaisakhi storms, Odisha faced scorching temperatures due to a prolonged heatwave. The rainfall has brought much-needed relief, leading to a significant drop in temperature across the state. However, the IMD cautions that fluctuating weather patterns will continue over the next few days.
Authorities have advised residents to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees, and secure loose outdoor objects to prevent accidents. The state government has directed disaster response teams to remain on standby to address any emergencies arising from extreme weather.