Bhubaneswar: The state of Odisha witnessed a destructive spell of Kalabaisakhi on 27 March 2026 as a severe Nor’wester storm cut a path of devastation through several northern and coastal districts. The atmospheric instability, triggered by a trough line extending from Gangetic West Bengal, resulted in high-velocity winds reaching up to 60 kmph, accompanied by intense lightning and heavy hailstorms that left a significant trail of damage to both life and property.
The most tragic impact was recorded in Mayurbhanj district, where two people lost their lives in Baripada and surrounding sub-divisions. Authorities identified the deceased as individuals caught in the sudden fury of the storm while traveling. One victim was reportedly struck by an uprooted tree, while another was fatally injured as the gale-force winds caused a vehicle to lose control. At least 40 others sustained injuries across the district as a tornado-like system struck villages including Kia, Kankada, and Dumuria, where the wind was powerful enough to lift motorcycles and an auto-rickshaw off the road.
Beyond the loss of life, the storm wreaked havoc on rural infrastructure and agriculture. Preliminary reports indicate that more than 200 thatched houses were damaged or completely destroyed by the winds and falling trees. Power infrastructure in Baripada and Karanjia was severely hit, with dozens of electricity poles snapped, leading to prolonged blackouts. Farmers also reported heavy losses as large hailstones, described by locals as the size of pebbles, flattened standing crops and damaged fruit orchards.
The regional meteorological center has maintained a yellow warning for the next 48 hours, advising residents in districts such as Keonjhar, Balasore, and Bhadrak to remain indoors during the late afternoon. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced an ex-gratia compensation of 4 lakh rupees each for the families of the deceased. Meanwhile, local administrative teams and fire services have been deployed in Mayurbhanj and surrounding regions to clear blocked roads and restore essential services.