Monsoon Set to Enter Odisha This Weekend; IMD Issues Heavy Rain Alert

Odisha is likely to get much-needed relief from the scorching summer heat as the Southwest Monsoon is expected to enter the state this weekend. Ahead of its arrival, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings for several districts over the next three days. According to the IMD, a strong pre-monsoon weather system is developing over the region, which is expected to trigger widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across Odisha. Heavy rain is likely in Malkangiri, Koraput, and Mayurbhanj on June 11. The intensity of rainfall is expected to increase on June 12, affecting Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, and Gajapati districts. The weather agency has further predicted that heavy showers will continue on June 13 in Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri, indicating the gradual advancement of the monsoon across the state.The IMD has also issued an Orange Warning for several coastal and interior districts, including Cuttack, Puri, Khurda, Balasore, Bhadrak, and Jajpur, where severe thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty surface winds reaching 50 to 60 kmph are likely. A Yellow Warning has been issued for other districts, including Sambalpur, Balangir, Kalahandi, and Ganjam, where thunderstorms and lightning activity are expected. While hot and humid weather conditions may persist for the next 48 hours, meteorologists have forecast a significant drop in temperature once the monsoon enters Odisha. Day temperatures are expected to fall by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius, bringing relief from the prolonged heatwave conditions experienced across the state. Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees, and follow official weather advisories issued by the IMD and local administration.