Weather Alert / Thunderstorm Warnings Issued as Cyclonic System Approaches Odisha

Bhubaneswar, Oct 10: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued fresh warnings as a cyclonic circulation remains active over the Thailand coast and adjoining regions, extending up to 9.4 km above sea level.

According to forecasts, the system is expected to move into the Andaman Sea by October 11, with the possibility of forming a low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal by October 13. However, officials said it is still unclear whether the system will intensify further.

Under the influence of the circulation and associated trough line, Odisha is likely to experience light to moderate rainfall over the next two days, with isolated heavy showers in some districts.

Also read: Heavy Rain Lashes Puri, Bringing Relief From Scorching Heat

The IMD has cautioned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds along coastal and interior regions.

A yellow warning has been issued for 21 districts including Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Balangir, Sonepur, Boudh, Anugola, Nayagada, Dhenkanal, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapada, Kataka, Khordha, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Baleshwar, Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj for the next 24 hours. Windspeeds are expected to reach 30-50 kmph.

On October 11, the warning will cover 14 districts — Gajapati, Ganjam, Nayagada, Dhenkanal, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapada, Kataka, Khordha, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Baleshwar, Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj — with gusts of 30-40 kmph likely.

Rainfall activity is expected to reduce from October 12, with no further alerts issued. IMD has also indicated that day and night temperatures will remain largely unchanged over the next week.

In the past 24 hours, Paralakhemundi recorded the highest maximum temperature at 36.2°C, while Phulbani registered the lowest at 20.5°C. Puri district witnessed heavy rainfall at isolated places, with 79.4 mm recorded. Light to moderate showers were reported from several other districts.

Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon has begun withdrawing from Odisha, moving through Sundaragada and Baragada. Officials said the withdrawal is progressing steadily across the state.