Odisha Braces for Weeklong Monsoon Surge; IMD Warns of Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Across Several Districts

Bhubaneswar: Odisha is set to experience an active monsoon phase over the next week, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds in many parts of the state through July 24. The Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar has issued Yellow Warnings for various districts, alerting residents to stay cautious and prepared.

For the next 24 hours (till 8:30 AM on July 18), light to moderate rain or thundershowers are expected in interior districts, with isolated showers likely along the coastal belt. Districts such as Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Angul, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj are likely to witness thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds blowing at speeds of 30–40 kmph.

As the week progresses, weather conditions are expected to worsen. Between July 19 and 20, the IMD forecasts heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms in parts of southern Odisha, including Rayagada, Koraput, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Gajapati. The system is likely to extend its influence over western and central Odisha, heightening the risk of waterlogging and travel disruptions.

The forecast indicates persistent rainfall activity through July 22, with intense showers predicted in Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Koraput, Ganjam, Gajapati, and Kandhamal. Other districts such as Nayagarh, Khurda, Puri, Balangir, and Nuapada may face thunderstorms and lightning, with strong surface winds causing temporary hazards.

On July 22 and 23, isolated heavy rain is expected to continue across Odisha, accompanied by widespread light to moderate rainfall, signaling a prolonged wet spell.

In view of the forecast, the IMD has urged farmers to take preventive steps to safeguard standing crops and harvested produce, particularly in regions likely to experience heavy downpours. The public has also been advised to remain alert, avoid open areas during lightning, and follow updates issued by local authorities.

While the inclement weather may disrupt daily life, meteorologists note that the monsoon revival could help make up for rainfall deficits reported earlier this season. The enhanced moisture is expected to support kharif sowing and agricultural recovery in rain-fed regions.

The IMD continues to monitor the evolving weather pattern and is expected to issue regular updates in the coming days.