Odisha on Alert: IMD Issues Thunderstorm Warning for Multiple Districts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow Warning for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in several districts of Odisha from February 23rd to 25th, 2026. The alerts are a result of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, with specific warnings for districts like Malkangiri, Koraput, Mayurbhanj, and Cuttack.
Key Highlights
- IMD issued Yellow Warning for thunderstorms and lightning.
- Gusty winds of 30-40 kmph expected in affected areas.
- Low-pressure system in Bay of Bengal is the cause.
- Warnings active from February 23rd to 25th, 2026.
- Specific districts listed for potential severe weather.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow Warning, signaling a need for public awareness and preparedness, for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty surface winds in several districts across Odisha. This alert is in effect from February 23rd to February 25th, 2026, with peak activity anticipated on February 23rd and 24th. The warnings are a consequence of a well-marked low-pressure area persisting over the southwest Bay of Bengal, with its associated cyclonic circulation extending up to 5.8 kilometers above mean sea level. This weather system is expected to move generally northeastwards and gradually weaken over the next 48 hours.
Under the influence of this system, isolated thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph are predicted for February 23rd and 24th in districts such as Sundargarh, Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Nawarangpur, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, Jajpur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Nuapada, Jharsuguda, Ganjam, Gajapati, and Bargarh.. Light rain or thunderstorms may also occur at one or two places within these warned districts, while dry weather is expected to prevail in the remaining parts of the state.. For February 25th, the IMD has extended a similar warning for parts of coastal and northern Odisha, including districts like Mayurbhanj, Jajpur, and Cuttack, where light rain or thunderstorms are possible at isolated locations..
The IMD has advised residents in the affected areas to remain alert and take necessary precautions, particularly in open areas and regions prone to lightning strikes and strong winds. Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the sea, and travelers are advised to be aware of potential disruptions due to the adverse weather.. The forecast also includes the possibility of shallow to moderate fog during early morning hours in certain districts like Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri..
Authorities are closely monitoring the evolving weather situation. The low-pressure system is a significant meteorological event influencing the weather patterns in the region. While the primary concern is the immediate thunderstorm activity, the IMD also noted that after February 25th, dry weather is expected to dominate across Odisha, with temperatures potentially rising as heat intensifies.. The IMD's regular bulletins and warnings are crucial for public safety and preparedness. The credibility of the IMD as a source for weather information is high, given its established role in meteorological forecasting and disaster warnings in India. The provided articles from various reputable news outlets corroborate the core information regarding the IMD's thunderstorm warning for Odisha, indicating a consistent and verified weather alert.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IMD's 'Yellow Warning'?
The IMD's 'Yellow Warning' is an alert system designed to make the public aware of potentially adverse weather conditions. It signifies the possibility of weather phenomena that could cause localized disruptions, advising people to be prepared and stay updated on forecasts.
Which districts in Odisha are affected by the thunderstorm warning?
The warning affects multiple districts including, but not limited to, Sundargarh, Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Nawarangpur, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, Jajpur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Nuapada, Jharsuguda, Ganjam, Gajapati, and Bargarh. Specific districts are mentioned for different days of the warning period.
What is causing the thunderstorm activity in Odisha?
The thunderstorms are caused by a well-marked low-pressure area that has been persisting over the southwest Bay of Bengal, with an associated cyclonic circulation extending into the atmosphere.