Red Alert for Bhubaneswar, Cuttack as IMD Warns of Severe Thunderstorms, Hailstorm

Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of severe weather conditions across several parts of Odisha, placing Bhubaneswar and Cuttack under a Red Warning on Thursday afternoon.

In its latest nowcast, the Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hailstorms and strong winds over the next three hours. Light to moderate rainfall is also expected in several affected areas.

The twin cities, along with parts of Khurda and Cuttack districts, are likely to experience intense thunderstorm activity. Wind speeds may reach 60-70 kmph and could gust up to 80 kmph, posing a risk to weak structures, roadside trees and electricity infrastructure.

Apart from Khurda and Cuttack, the Red Warning covers Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Bhadrak, Dhenkanal, Ganjam and Nayagarh districts, where similar weather conditions are forecast.

The IMD has also issued an Orange Warning for Sundargarh, Angul, Kendrapara, Jajpur, Jagatsinghpur, Kandhamal, and Gajapati districts. These areas are expected to witness thunderstorms with lightning, moderate rainfall and wind speeds ranging between 50 and 60 kmph, with gusts up to 70 kmph. Isolated hailstorms are also likely.

Officials have advised residents to remain cautious as weather conditions may change rapidly. People have been urged to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering under trees, and keep away from electric poles, wires and water bodies.

The latest advisory comes amid heightened thunderstorm activity across the state as atmospheric conditions remain favourable ahead of the southwest monsoon’s further advance over Odisha.