The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Warning for Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj and Nabarangpur districts, forecasting thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, rain and strong winds with speeds of 50 to 60 kmph over the next 24 hours.
According to the weather department, Kalbaisakhi (nor’wester) activity is expected to continue in parts of coastal, northern and southern Odisha until June 6. Widespread rainfall has also been predicted across the state on June 5 and 6.
While sporadic thunderstorms may provide temporary relief, Odisha is likely to continue experiencing hot and humid weather conditions. The IMD has warned that temperatures could rise by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius over the next four days.
Monsoon Expected to Reach Kerala on June 4
The India Meteorological Department has indicated that the southwest monsoon is likely to make its onset over Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu on June 4. Weather experts believe the monsoon could reach Odisha before the Raja festival, bringing much-needed relief from the prevailing heat and humidity.
Meteorologist Dr. Sarat Chandra Sahu said the southwest monsoon is expected to touch Kerala by June 4 or 5, though its initial progress may be slow. Between June 7 and 10, the monsoon is likely to advance further into western India.
If both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches remain favourable, the monsoon could arrive in Odisha between June 13 and 16, with June 13 or 14 considered the most probable dates.
Experts Predict Odisha Monsoon Arrival Between June 10 and 14
Renowned agrometeorologist Professor Surendranath Pasupalak said various weather models indicate that the monsoon could reach Odisha between June 8 and 14. However, he believes it is unlikely to arrive before June 10.
According to his assessment, there is an 80 percent chance of the monsoon entering Odisha between June 10 and 14, while a delayed arrival around June 15 or 16 remains a possibility with a 20 percent probability.
He noted that the Bay of Bengal branch of the monsoon is currently not very active, and no organized cyclonic circulation or low-pressure system has developed over the region. Such systems generally help pull the monsoon further inland.
Heat to Persist Despite Thunderstorm Activity
Professor Pasupalak said coastal Odisha is likely to witness temperatures ranging between 36°C and 39°C, while western Odisha may experience temperatures between 39°C and 42°C. Intermittent thunderstorms are expected in some areas, and similar weather conditions are likely to continue until June 7.
Dr. Sahu also stated that rainfall activity across Odisha would remain limited until June 10. While isolated Kalbaisakhi storms may occur during evenings and nights, their impact is expected to remain localized rather than widespread.
Several Districts Record Temperatures Above 40°C
On Tuesday, Boudh recorded the state’s highest temperature at 41°C. Khordha also touched 41°C, while Sambalpur recorded 40.8°C. Talcher and Dhenkanal reported temperatures of 40°C each. Bhubaneswar recorded a maximum temperature of 38.9°C, with many other parts of the state witnessing temperatures between 38°C and 39°C.
The weather department has advised residents to remain alert during thunderstorm activity and take necessary precautions against lightning, strong winds and rising temperatures.