Bhubaneswar, July 2(OT Webdesk) — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for several districts in northern Odisha, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds for the next 72 hours.
According to the latest bulletin, Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar are expected to face intense weather conditions, including wind speeds of 30–40 km/h, increasing the risk of localized flooding, low visibility, and traffic disruptions.
Simultaneously, a yellow alert has been announced for six additional districts: Dhenkanal, Angul, Deogarh, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Bargarh.
These regions may experience isolated downpours and thunderstorms, with rural areas particularly vulnerable to lightning and falling trees.
The weather shift is attributed to a low-pressure area hovering over Gangetic West Bengal and its neighbouring regions, supported by a cyclonic circulation up to 5.8 km above sea level.
The system is currently moving northwestward toward Jharkhand and is intensifying monsoon activity across Odisha.
The IMD has advised residents in orange alert zones to stay indoors and avoid low-lying or waterlogged areas.
Local administrations remain on high alert and are expected to issue additional advisories as needed.
