Bhubaneswar: For the next five days, the state is expected to experience isolated light to moderate rain or thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds.
Meteorologists have issued a Yellow Warning through May 12, 2026, noting that afternoon and evening hours may bring surface winds reaching speeds of 30-50 kmph across various districts.
While active weather is predicted for the immediate future, the forecast for May 13 and 14 indicates no warnings as conditions are expected to stabilize. Additionally, maximum temperatures are projected to rise by 2-4°C over the next few days before remaining steady thereafter.
In response to these conditions, agricultural experts from various field units have provided specific guidance to minimize crop and livestock loss. Farmers are strongly advised to harvest matured summer paddy, pulses, and rabi crops immediately, especially if 80-85% of the grains or pods have reached maturity. Harvested produce should be stored in safe, dry locations to avoid damage from sudden rain or moisture.
To protect standing crops from wind damage, the advisory recommends providing mechanical support or staking for banana, papaya, tomato, and cucurbit plants. For orchards, farmers are encouraged to use netting or tie nets under trees to protect mangoes from falling or being damaged due to thunderstorms and heavy wind.
Regarding chemical applications, the bulletin advises postponing the use of pesticides and fertilizers during periods of rainfall and high wind. However, once the weather clears, specific treatments are recommended for pests like the fall armyworm in maize and the fruit and shoot borer in vegetables.
Livestock owners are cautioned to keep animals indoors during peak heat hours, generally between 11 AM and 4 PM, and to provide plenty of clean drinking water with electrolytes to prevent heat stress. During active thunderstorms and lightning, animals should not be tied under trees, near water bodies, or near electric poles.
For fish farmers, the advisory suggests maintaining a water depth of 5-6 feet to ensure cooler temperatures at the bottom of ponds. Feed quantities should be reduced by 10-20% during extreme heat to prevent water pollution from uneaten feed.
Finally, the department urges farmers to prioritize personal safety by avoiding open fields, trees, or water bodies during lightning activity. Official mobile applications such as Mausam, Meghdoot, and Damini should be used for real-time weather and lightning alerts.