Odisha Fire and Emergency Services Issue Public Advisory Amid Kalbaisakhi Threat

Bhubaneswar: In response to the frequent occurrences of Kalbaisakhi (Nor’wester) storms and related thunderstorms across the state, the Directorate of Fire and Emergency Services, Odisha, has issued a public advisory to enhance awareness and preparedness among citizens. The move comes as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds (30–60 kmph) from May 19 to 23 across several districts.

Districts expected to be affected include Ganjam, Gajapati, Nayagarh, Khurda, Rayagada, Kalahandi, Koraput, Cuttack, and Angul, with an orange alert already in place for many of these areas. The Directorate’s advisory urges the public to exercise caution and take necessary safety measures during this period of volatile weather.

People have been advised to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering under trees, electric poles, or makeshift structures, and to steer clear of open fields and water bodies during lightning activity. The public is also encouraged to secure loose materials such as tin sheets, hoardings, and construction supplies that could become hazardous in strong winds. Additionally, citizens are reminded to unplug electrical appliances to prevent lightning-induced damage and keep emergency essentials like torches, first-aid kits, and drinking water handy.

Fire and Emergency Services units across Odisha have been placed on high alert and are equipped to tackle a range of storm-related emergencies including tree falls, road obstructions, fire outbreaks, and structural collapses. Special rescue and evacuation teams are also on standby.

To bolster preparedness, the Directorate has deployed additional personnel, tree-cutting tools, combitools, and wireless communication equipment in vulnerable regions, ensuring rapid response capabilities. In case of emergencies, citizens are urged to contact their nearest Fire Station or dial the universal emergency number 112.

The Directorate of Fire and Emergency Services has appealed to the public to remain calm, act responsibly, and cooperate fully with emergency personnel. It has also advised citizens to rely solely on verified updates from official government sources and refrain from spreading unconfirmed information.