Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall across several states in East and Central India, including Odisha, from June 17th to June 20th. This advisory comes as the Southwest Monsoon continues its advancement, bringing much-needed respite from the pre-monsoon heat.
According to IMD officials, a cyclonic circulation over the Northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal has intensified into a low-pressure area, further contributing to the enhanced rainfall activity. This system is expected to move west-northwestwards, impacting a wide region.
Odisha on Alert:
In Odisha, where the monsoon has become active, the IMD Bhubaneswar centre has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in various districts until June 20th. An Orange warning has been issued for districts like Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Kalahandi, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, and Sundargarh. Additionally, a Yellow warning for heavy rainfall has been put in place for 17 other districts, including Puri, Khurda, Kandhamal, and Ganjam.
Fishermen along the Odisha coast have been advised not to venture into the sea from June 17th to 19th due to the likelihood of rough to very rough sea conditions and squally winds reaching speeds of 40-60 kmph, gusting to 70 kmph.
Wider Impact Across India:
Beyond Odisha, the IMD forecast indicates torrential rains from June 17th to 20th over West Bengal, Sikkim, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh. Isolated heavy rainfall is also likely over Uttarakhand, East Uttar Pradesh, Jammu-Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, East Rajasthan, and West Rajasthan during this period.
The intensified monsoon activity is a welcome change for many regions that have been grappling with severe heatwave conditions. However, authorities are urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions, and stay updated with the latest weather advisories. The heavy rainfall could lead to localized waterlogging, disruption of traffic, and potential damage to vulnerable structures. People are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and take safe shelter, refraining from taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms.