Odisha received major relief from the ongoing heatwave after Kalbaisakhi showers and thunderstorms lashed several parts of the state, including the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, on Thursday evening.
Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds hit multiple regions following sudden cloud formation and overcast skies. The weather remained cloudy in Bhubaneswar since morning, bringing down temperatures and offering respite from the scorching summer heat.
IMD Issues Orange and Yellow Warnings
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that similar weather conditions may continue in several districts of Odisha.
According to the latest forecast:
- Orange Warning has been issued for 8 districts due to thunderstorms and lightning
- Yellow Warning remains in effect for 16 districts
- Strong winds and heavy rainfall are likely to continue in several regions
Officials have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity and avoid open areas during lightning.
Rourkela Faces Major Damage After Kalbaisakhi Storm
Kalbaisakhi storms caused widespread destruction in Rourkela, severely affecting normal life across several parts of the city.
Strong winds and intense rainfall uprooted trees, damaged houses and disrupted electricity supply in many localities, including:
- Sector 1
- Sector 2
- Sector 3
- Sector 20
Many residents are still facing power cuts after the storm that struck on May 25. The situation worsened after another spell of heavy rain and strong winds hit the city again on Thursday evening.
Visuals from different areas showed uprooted trees blocking roads and roofs blown away due to the storm’s impact.
Bonai Area in Sundargarh Also Hit Hard
The Bonai area of Sundargarh district also witnessed severe destruction due to the Kalbaisakhi storm.
Strong winds uprooted several large trees and electric poles, while more than five transformers were reportedly damaged during the storm. The weather disturbance disrupted normal life for nearly two hours and caused major power supply interruptions.
Residents reported panic-like conditions as fallen trees and damaged electric infrastructure affected transportation and daily activities.
Fishermen Restricted From Entering Sea
Due to rough sea conditions triggered by a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, the Fisheries Department has prohibited fishermen from venturing into the sea in several coastal areas under Bhograi block.
The restricted areas include:
- Udaypur
- Talsari
- Ranasinghpur
- Kirtania
The restriction will remain effective on May 28 and 29 amid forecasts of heavy rain and strong winds.
Officials from the Chandaneswar Fisheries Department have started awareness campaigns using public announcement systems, urging fishermen to avoid sea travel and move boats and fishing equipment to safer locations.
Authorities have also warned of strict action against anyone violating the advisory.
Odisha Continues to Face Unstable Weather Conditions
Kalbaisakhi storms have recently affected multiple districts across Odisha, especially Sundargarh and nearby regions, causing disruptions in electricity supply, transportation and public life.
With low-pressure influence continuing over the Bay of Bengal, weather experts expect intermittent rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds in several parts of the state over the next few days.
