Odisha is likely to experience favourable weather during the upcoming Dussehra and Kumar Purnima celebrations, with mostly dry conditions expected across the state, according to weather forecasts by Professor Surendranath Pashupalak. However, some southern and coastal districts may receive rain accompanied by thunderstorms between October 16 and 18.
Rain Likely in Southern and Coastal Districts
Between October 16 and 18, isolated places in Ganjam, Gajapati, Puri, Khurda, Jagatsinghpur, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri districts may experience light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms. Wind speeds could reach 30–40 kmph during thunderstorms.
Although the southwest monsoon has completely withdrawn from Odisha, a broad trough extends from a cyclonic circulation near the southern coast of Tamil Nadu towards the northwestern Bay of Bengal off the Odisha coast.
Variations in wind speed and direction at different atmospheric levels, along with dry northerly winds in the upper atmosphere, may restrict the development of organised rain clouds.
Dry Weather Likely From October 19
From October 19, most parts of Odisha are expected to experience dry weather, although isolated areas of southern interior Odisha may receive rainfall.
Weather conditions are likely to remain favourable for Vijayadashami celebrations around October 20–21. Night temperatures in Kandhamal and Koraput may gradually become more comfortable, but there is no indication of a sudden cold wave.
Mostly Dry Conditions During Kumar Purnima
Most parts of Odisha are likely to remain dry between October 21 and 26, with isolated rainfall possible in southern districts. Kumar Purnima, falling on October 26, may also witness predominantly dry weather if the developing weather system remains away from the Odisha coast.
A fresh cyclonic circulation may form over the southeastern Bay of Bengal and adjoining Andaman Sea between October 22 and 24. This could lead to the formation of a low-pressure area around October 25–26. Its intensity and direction of movement remain uncertain.
Advisory for Farmers
Farmers have been advised to harvest, thresh and dry mature crops during dry weather. Harvested produce should be protected from dew and unexpected rainfall. Pesticide spraying should be avoided during thunderstorms.
The weather situation after October 22 will require close monitoring.