Severe Weather Disrupts Normal Life
A powerful Kalbaisakhi storm swept across Odisha on Thursday night, bringing strong winds, lightning, thunder, and heavy rainfall. The storm caused extensive damage across several districts, uprooting trees, damaging houses, and disrupting daily life. Power supply was affected in many areas as electric poles and lines were damaged, leaving several regions without electricity.
Heavy Rainfall Recorded in Several Areas
The storm brought significant rainfall across the state. Puri recorded the highest rainfall at 68.8 mm, followed by Chhatrapur with 64.0 mm and Daringbadi with 63.0 mm. Bhubaneswar and Gopalpur also experienced heavy rainfall, recording 45.4 mm each.
Man Dies After Tree Falls in Cuttack
In a tragic incident in the Badamba area of Cuttack district, a 58-year-old man, Narendra Mallick, lost his life after a neem tree fell on him while he was returning home at night. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead. The incident has created a somber atmosphere in the area, and locals have demanded government assistance for the victim’s family.
Two Missing After Being Swept Away in Nayagarh
In Nayagarh district, two friends were swept away while fishing in the Kuanria dam near Daspalla. Rescue teams have recovered the body of one person, identified as Pradeep Pradhan, while the other, Abhaya Khamari, remains missing. Search operations are ongoing.
Major Damage Reported in Puri District
Puri district was severely affected, especially in Brahmagiri and Krushnaprasad areas. Trees and electric poles were uprooted, blocking roads and affecting transportation. Roofs made of asbestos sheets were blown away in several villages. In one incident, ten people narrowly escaped injury. Lightning also caused damage to coconut trees.
Houses and Property Damaged in Mayurbhanj
In Jambhirapal village of Mayurbhanj district, a large tree fell on the house of Laxmidhar Soren, causing heavy damage. The family was inside at the time but escaped without injury. Electric wires were snapped, and stored paddy was destroyed. In another incident, a market structure worth a significant amount was completely damaged.
Crop Losses Raise Concern in Sonepur
In Subarnapur district, also known as Sonepur, heavy rain, strong winds, and hailstorms caused damage to crops. Areas such as Birmaharajpur, Ulunda, Dunguripali, and Binika were badly affected. Standing Rabi crops and vegetables suffered major losses, increasing concerns among farmers.
Relief and Restoration Efforts Underway
Authorities have begun restoration work in affected areas. Emergency services are on alert, and efforts are being made to clear roads, restore electricity, and assist affected residents. People are now waiting for government support and compensation for their losses.