Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a special bulletin today, April 27, 2025, forecasting a high likelihood of thunderstorm activity across various districts of Odisha. The alert indicates that between today and May 1st, 2025, the state can expect thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, gusty surface winds, hail, and heavy rainfall.
The IMD bulletin strongly advises residents in the affected districts to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and minimize potential damage. The combination of lightning, strong winds, hail, and heavy downpours can pose significant risks.
Key elements of the IMD forecast include:
- Thunderstorms: Widespread thunderstorm activity is expected across the specified period.
- Lightning: A high probability of lightning strikes accompanies the thunderstorms, posing a severe threat to life and property. Residents are urged to seek shelter indoors during thunderstorms and avoid contact with metal objects and water.
- Gusty Surface Winds: Strong winds are anticipated, which could potentially damage temporary structures, trees, and power lines. It is advisable to secure loose outdoor items.
- Hail: The forecast includes the possibility of hailstorms in some areas, which can cause damage to crops, vehicles, and infrastructure.
- Heavy Rainfall: Significant rainfall is expected, raising concerns about potential waterlogging in low-lying areas and disruption to normal life. There is also a risk of localized flooding in vulnerable regions.
Citizens are advised to:
- Stay indoors during thunderstorms.
- Avoid open fields, elevated places, trees, and metal structures.
- Disconnect electrical appliances.
- Not take shelter under trees.
- Be aware of potential waterlogging and avoid driving or walking through flooded areas.
- Secure loose outdoor objects to prevent wind damage.
The state administration and disaster management authorities are likely to be on alert, monitoring the situation closely and taking necessary steps to mitigate any potential impact of the adverse weather conditions. Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and advisories issued by the IMD and local authorities.
This weather bulletin underscores the importance of preparedness and vigilance as Odisha braces for a period of intense thunderstorm activity.