Odisha weather alert: fishermen advised against venturing into sea on November 17 and 18

Bhubaneswar, Nov 14: The Odisha government has issued a warning advising fishermen not to venture into the sea on November 17 and 18 due to the possibility of rough weather and strong winds along the southern Odisha coast.

According to the fishermen's warning issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), wind speeds along the southern Odisha coast and adjoining sea areas are expected to reach 45–55 kmph, with gusts occasionally reaching up to 65 kmph during the two days.

The sea is likely to remain rough to very rough, creating potentially dangerous conditions for fishing activities.

In view of the expected weather conditions, the Office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), Odisha, has issued an advisory directing fishermen to stay away from the southern Odisha coast and adjoining sea areas on November 17 and 18.

Fishermen have been clearly advised not to venture into the sea for fishing during this period to avoid potential risks from strong winds and rough sea conditions.

The state government has directed the concerned district administrations, Fisheries Department officials and other authorities to ensure that the warning reaches fishermen across six coastal districts. The districts include Ganjam, Puri, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Bhadrak and Baleswar.

Officials have been instructed to communicate the weather warning to fishermen and ensure that necessary precautionary measures are taken.

Authorities have also been directed to ensure that all fishermen return safely from the sea.

Relevant officials must obtain confirmation or certificates establishing that fishermen have returned safely before the warning period.