A powerful Kalbaisakhi storm wreaked havoc in Odisha’s capital city on Sunday afternoon, disrupting normal life and affecting transportation services. Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds reduced visibility across the city, preventing Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s helicopter from landing in Bhubaneswar.
The helicopter, carrying the Chief Minister and Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, was diverted to Puri after adverse weather conditions made landing unsafe. Majhi was returning to Bhubaneswar after completing an official visit to Mayurbhanj district.
Sudden Storm After Intense Heat and Humidity
Earlier in the day, Bhubaneswar residents experienced severe heat and humidity. By 11:30 a.m., the city recorded a temperature of 36.2 degrees Celsius. The heat index touched a scorching 52 degrees Celsius, while humidity levels stood at 66 percent, making outdoor activities extremely uncomfortable.
The oppressive weather left residents struggling with intense heat throughout the morning. However, conditions changed dramatically in the afternoon as strong winds and heavy rainfall swept across the city under the influence of a Kalbaisakhi storm.
CM’s Helicopter Unable to Land
As the storm intensified over Bhubaneswar, authorities received reports of adverse weather conditions, prompting the diversion of the Chief Minister’s helicopter. The aircraft was redirected to Puri as a precautionary measure.
According to sources, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi is expected to return to Bhubaneswar once weather conditions stabilize and it is safe for air travel.
Monsoon Likely to Reach Odisha Within 2–3 Days
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that weather conditions are becoming increasingly favorable for the advancement of the southwest monsoon into Odisha within the next two to three days.
The monsoon has already progressed further into parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. Meteorologists have also noted favorable conditions for its advance into Odisha, West Bengal, Sikkim, and the remaining parts of the northeastern states.
Orange Warning for 14 Districts
Amid ongoing pre-monsoon rainfall activity, the IMD has issued an Orange Warning for 14 districts and a Yellow Alert for 16 districts across Odisha.
The weather agency has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty surface winds reaching speeds of up to 60 kmph in several areas. Residents have been advised to remain cautious and follow weather advisories issued by local authorities.
The recent spell of Kalbaisakhi storms has brought temporary relief from the intense summer heat, but it has also raised concerns over disruptions to transportation and daily life as Odisha prepares for the arrival of the southwest monsoon.