Bhubaneswar: Odisha is bracing for a significant shift in weather patterns over the coming week as a well-marked low-pressure area over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal influences regional atmospheric conditions.
The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for several districts, indicating a mix of high temperatures and localized stormy activity.
The initial days of the week are expected to bring intensely hot and humid conditions across the state. In capital city Bhubaneswar and neighboring regions, daytime temperatures are projected to climb steadily, starting near 38°C and potentially surging past 44°C by midweek.
High relative humidity, fluctuating between 75% and 90% during the morning hours, will push heat index values higher, making conditions feel significantly warmer than the actual air temperature. Residents across interior and coastal districts are advised to stay hydrated and minimize direct sun exposure during peak afternoon hours.
Alongside the rising temperatures, the cyclonic circulation associated with the low-pressure system will trigger localized thunderstorms and rain. Coastal and southern districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Cuttack, Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Koraput, are likely to experience light to moderate rain or thunderstorms in the afternoon or evening hours.
The weather office warns that these thunderstorms may be accompanied by gusty surface winds reaching speeds of 30 to 50 kilometers per hour. These sudden gusts could cause minor damage to loose structures, plantation crops, and standing paddy.
Commuters and residents are urged to seek safe shelter during thunderstorm activity and avoid standing under trees or near unsecured structures. The unstable weather conditions are expected to persist through the weekend, with alternating spells of intense daytime heat and evening thundershowers.