Bhubaneswar, May 13: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that the low-pressure system active over the southwest Bay of Bengal has now intensified into a well-marked low-pressure area.

However, officials noted that the likelihood of the system developing into a depression remains low.

Meanwhile, conditions are gradually becoming favourable for the advancement of the southwest monsoon.

According to IMD forecasts, the monsoon is expected to reach parts of the south Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Sea, and the Andaman-Nicobar Islands by May 16, 2026.

Also read: Southwest Monsoon to Arrive on Time, SaysIMD

Odisha is currently experiencing rising temperatures, with the IMD predicting an increase of 2 to 5 degrees Celsius across several districts over the next two to three days.

On Tuesday, Titilagarh recorded the state’s highest maximum temperature at 40°C. In contrast, heavy rainfall was reported in Barakot, Deogarh, which recorded 52.2 mm of precipitation in the past 24 hours.

The IMD has forecast rainfall across the state for the next seven days. For the next 24 hours, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are expected in 24 districts.

A yellow alert has been issued for Sundargarh, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, and Bhadrak districts, where wind speeds are likely to reach 40-50 km/h during thunderstorms.

Officials have urged residents to remain cautious, avoid open areas during lightning, and secure loose objects that could be blown away by strong winds. Farmers have also been advised to take protective measures for standing crops.

With the monsoon expected to make its initial entry into the Andaman region within days, Odisha is bracing for a mix of rising heat and intermittent rainfall, setting the stage for the seasonal transition.