Bhubaneswar, Oct 3: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday issued Orange and Yellow alerts for multiple districts in Odisha as a depression over interior Odisha continues to move north-northwestwards at a speed of 20 kmph. The system is expected to weaken into a well-marked low-pressure area over the next 24 hours.

According to the IMD, the depression was centered near latitude 21.2°N and longitude 83.6°E, approximately 50 km southwest of Sambalpur, 80 km south-southeast of Raigarh (Chhattisgarh), and 150 km north-northeast of Bhawanipatna at 11.30 AM today. It is forecast to move across interior Odisha and then northward into Chhattisgarh.

Orange Alert for Heavy Rainfall

The IMD has issued an Orange Warning for Sundargarh and Jharsuguda, predicting isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms with lightning, and gusty surface winds reaching 30–40 kmph during the next 24 hours. Residents in these districts are advised to remain alert and take precautionary measures.

Yellow Alert for Widespread Thunderstorms

A Yellow Warning has been issued for over 30 districts including Sambalpur, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Bargarh, Nuapada, Nawarangpur, Bolangir, and coastal regions like Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Cuttack. These areas may experience isolated heavy rainfall and thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds.

Authorities have urged the public to avoid waterlogged areas, stay indoors during lightning activity, and follow local advisories. With the southwest monsoon remaining vigorous, Odisha is likely to witness continued weather disruptions in the coming days.

Know about Orange & Yellow Alerts

Orange Alert (Be Prepared): An Orange Alert is issued when severe weather conditions are expected that could potentially disrupt daily life or pose a moderate to high risk to people and property. It serves as a warning to authorities and the public to prepare for action.

Yellow Alert (Be Aware): A Yellow Alert is issued when weather conditions are likely to occur but are not expected to be severe. It serves as a cautionary notice to stay informed and be aware of changing conditions.