Odisha Monsoon Intensifies: Heavy Rains Threaten Raja Festival Celebrations

Southwest Monsoon

Bhubaneswar, June 9, ( OT Webdesk)– Odisha is bracing for a week-long monsoon downpour that promises relief from the scorching summer but may dampen the spirit of the much-anticipated Raja Festival.

The Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar has forecast thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy rainfall, particularly in northern and coastal districts, as the southwest monsoon intensifies post-June 12.

The weather pattern is driven by an active cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal, expected to develop into a low-pressure area by June 13.

On June 14, Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj were placed under a heavy rainfall warning, with yellow and orange alerts issued across multiple districts.

While agricultural prospects look promising with ample rainfall for sowing, waterlogging, travel disruptions, and subdued festival celebrations remain a concern.

Despite the rains cooling down coastal areas, interior regions such as Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, and Bolangir continue to endure heatwave conditions exceeding 40°C.

Authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant, track weather updates, and take necessary precautions as Odisha moves into an active monsoon phase.