Kalbaisakhi storms likely to affect Odisha till May 7, with IMD issuing yellow warnings for thunderstorms, lightning, and rain. Residents advised caution as winds intensify and temperatures dip slightly.
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IMD warning in Odisha for next 24 hours Photograph: (Photo Courtesy:https://mausam.imd.gov.in/)
Impact of seasonal thunderstorms, locally known as Kalbaisakhi (Nor’wester), is very likely to persist across Odisha, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) regional centre forecasting its influence to last till May 7.
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The weather department has issued a Yellow Warning for tomorrow in as many as 23 districts, cautioning residents about thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and rainfall.
According to the forecast, several parts of the State are likely to experience gusty winds, lightning strikes, and moderate rainfall, especially over the next 24 hours. Due to the impact of these weather conditions, a drop in temperature by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius is expected over the next two days, providing some relief from the prevailing heat.
However, districts such as Sambalpur, Bargarh, Deogarh, Sundargarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, and Jharsuguda are likely to remain unaffected by Kalbaisakhi activity during this period. In contrast, most other districts are expected to witness its impact.
Meanwhile, the sea conditions along the Odisha Coast are predicted to remain rough. Authorities have advised fishermen not to venture into the sea until at least May 5 as a precautionary measure.
Residents are urged to stay alert, avoid open areas during lightning activity, and follow safety advisories issued by local authorities. The weather department continues to monitor the situation closely and provide timely updates.
In its evening bulletin, the IMD regional centre said, “People are advised to keep watch on the weather and take safe shelter during the thunderstorm activity to protect from lightning and follow traffic advisories in urban areas. Also, harvesting of crops may be regulated judiciously, and farmers are advised to use hail nets to protect vegetables and crops from hailstorms.”
Temperature forecast: No major change in the Maximum (day) temperature is likely during the next two days, and a fall by 2-3 °C thereafter over the districts of Odisha.