Heavy Rain Alert Issued for Seven Odisha Districts; IMD Warns of Thunderstorms Till Monday

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain alert for seven districts of Odisha, forecasting intense showers accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds over the next 24 hours.

Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sambalpur, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, and Nuapada are expected to receive 7–11 cm of rainfall, with the system likely to remain active until Monday.

A yellow warning has been issued for 15 districts, cautioning residents about lightning strikes and moderate rainfall.

The IMD has also warned of wind speeds reaching 30–40 kmph, which may damage temporary structures, uproot weak trees, and disrupt outdoor activities.

Authorities have advised residents to avoid sheltering under trees during thunderstorms, remain indoors during lightning, and exercise caution while travelling through waterlogged or low‑lying areas.

The alert coincides with the ongoing monsoon showers, which have already disrupted daily life during the Rath Yatra period.