A powerful Kalbaisakhi thunderstorm brought much-needed relief to residents of Bhubaneswar on Friday, causing the temperature to plunge by nearly 14 degrees Celsius within a short span of time. The capital city had been reeling under intense heat and humidity, with temperatures hovering around 38 degrees Celsius and making outdoor activities extremely difficult.

Residents had been struggling with the oppressive weather conditions, but the sudden arrival of dark clouds in the afternoon dramatically changed the atmosphere.

Day Turns Into Night as Dark Clouds Cover City

The sky over Bhubaneswar turned unusually dark as thick black clouds engulfed the city. The dramatic weather change created scenes resembling nighttime in broad daylight.

Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds, thunder and lightning swept across the capital, reducing visibility and bringing down temperatures significantly. The storm provided respite from the unbearable heat and humidity that had gripped the city for several days.

International Trade Fair Suffers Heavy Damage

While the rain brought relief to residents, it also caused extensive damage at the International Trade Fair venue at Janata Maidan.

Large banners, posters and temporary structures erected for the fair were damaged by the strong winds. Several tents collapsed, and nearly 250 stalls were reportedly affected by the storm. Traders participating in the event, including those from outside the state and abroad, suffered losses as rainwater damaged goods and exhibition materials.

Initial reports indicate that merchandise worth lakhs of rupees may have been destroyed due to the sudden downpour and gusty winds.

Fire Services Clear Fallen Trees

The storm also uprooted trees and disrupted traffic in several parts of the city. Around 15 fire service teams were deployed to clear fallen trees and restore normal movement on roads.

Despite the damage, residents welcomed the thunderstorm as it brought long-awaited relief from the sweltering summer conditions. Weather experts expect thunderstorm activity to continue in parts of Odisha over the coming days, offering further respite from the heat.

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Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today reviewed the preparedness for Cyclone Montha at the Lok Seva Bhavan, directing officials to ensure that no individual remains in vulnerable areas during the storm. He emphasized that the state government’s primary goal is zero casualty, reiterating that Odisha is fully prepared to handle the cyclone’s impact.

Even though the cyclone is expected to cross the coast in Andhra Pradesh, heavy rainfall and strong winds are anticipated in several southern Odisha districts, prompting comprehensive precautionary measures.

30 ODRAF, 5 NDRF and 123 Fire Teams Deployed

The Chief Minister was informed that 30 ODRAF teams, 5 NDRF units, and 123 Fire Service teams have already been deployed across vulnerable regions, with additional teams on standby. He instructed all departments to maintain high alert and ensure quick restoration of essential services once the cyclone subsides.

2,048 Shelters Ready, 11,396 People Already Shifted

As part of pre-cyclone evacuation, 2,048 multipurpose cyclone and flood shelters have been prepared across eight highly vulnerable districts—Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur.
So far, 11,396 people have been evacuated to safety, and arrangements are in place to shift another 30,554 if required.

Special attention has been given to expectant mothers—1,871 pregnant women have already been moved to health facilities, and an additional 822 will be shifted soon, totaling 2,693.

Priority on Farmer Support and Quick Damage Assessment

With the harvesting season underway, the Chief Minister directed the Agriculture Department to carry out immediate crop damage assessments post-cyclone and ensure timely financial assistance to affected farmers.
He reminded officials that, during last year’s Cyclone Dana, Odisha achieved zero casualty through effective evacuation strategies, urging them to replicate that success.

Infrastructure and Emergency Services on High Alert

The Engineering Departments have been instructed to remain ready for rapid restoration of roads, electricity, and water supply. Teams have been asked to clear fallen trees and debris immediately after the cyclone.
Backup DG sets have been placed in all critical facilities to ensure uninterrupted power.
Health centers in vulnerable areas have been stocked with anti-snakebite injections, medicines, and emergency medical kits.

Schools Closed, Tourist Movement Restricted

All schools and Anganwadi centers in the eight districts will remain closed until October 30, with possible extension depending on weather conditions.
The government has also banned tourist activities in coastal and hilly regions until October 31.
Fishermen have been strictly warned not to venture into the sea until further notice.

Continuous Monitoring and Coordination at the Highest Level

The Chief Minister informed that Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari has been chairing daily review meetings for the past three days to oversee preparedness. All departments are in constant coordination, while District Collectors and Secretaries are monitoring local execution of safety protocols.

During the meeting, presentations were made by the Special Relief Commissioner, Director General of Police, and Secretaries of various departments, highlighting ongoing efforts and contingency plans.
Top officials including Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner Anu Garg, and senior officers of key departments attended the meeting. Collectors joined virtually from their respective districts.

“Odisha is Fully Prepared” – CM Majhi

Concluding the review, CM Majhi reiterated:

“Every life is precious. Our goal remains Zero Casualty. The state government is fully prepared to handle Cyclone Montha and protect our people.”

He urged all officers to remain vigilant and ensure swift response before, during, and after the cyclone’s landfall.

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