Odisha is set to experience a four-day spell of thunderstorms that will bring relief from rising temperatures but also raise concerns over safety and potential damage. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for several districts as pre-monsoon activity intensifies across the state.

Orange Alert Issued for Northern Districts

The IMD has placed an orange alert for districts including Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Bhadrak, and Keonjhar. These areas are likely to witness:

Gusty winds of 40–50 kmph
Frequent lightning and thunder
Moderate to heavy rainfall
Possibility of hail in some regions

This weather pattern, commonly known as Kal Baisakhi, has already begun and is expected to persist until April 3.

Widespread Rainfall Likely Across Odisha

Today, several parts of the state are expected to receive rain accompanied by lightning and thunder. On April 1, a yellow warning will be in place for 17 districts, indicating continued storm activity across Odisha.

Northern Odisha is likely to bear the brunt of these weather conditions over the next few days.

Relief from Heat Amid Rising Temperatures

After days of soaring mercury levels, the storms are expected to bring much-needed relief for residents. The rain and cooler winds will temporarily ease heatwave-like conditions being experienced across many regions.

However, the sudden change in weather also comes with risks.

Farmers and Residents on Alert

While the rains are a relief for city dwellers, farmers remain concerned. Strong winds and possible hailstorms could damage:

Standing crops
Horticultural produce
Thatched houses and rural structures

Commuters may also face disruptions, especially during late afternoon and evening hours when such storms are most intense.

Safety Advisory Issued

Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during the storm period. People are urged to:

Stay indoors during lightning and heavy rain
Avoid taking shelter under trees or open structures
Keep track of official weather updates

A Typical Pre-Monsoon Pattern

These thunderstorms are part of Odisha’s pre-monsoon weather cycle, offering both relief and challenges. While they help lower temperatures, they also serve as a reminder of the need for preparedness against sudden and intense weather changes.

As Odisha moves through this stormy phase, vigilance and safety remain key for residents across the state.

STA Issues Winter Driving Advisory as Fog Increases Accident Risk; IMD Warns of Cyclone Ditwah Impact

OdishaConnect — Sat, 29 Nov 2025 09:48:50 +0000

Drivers Urged to Stay Alert During Winter Mornings and Nights

The State Transport Authority (STA) has advised motorists to remain extremely cautious while driving during winter, especially during early mornings and late nights when dense fog reduces visibility. The authority warned that foggy conditions significantly increase the chances of road accidents.

The STA has urged drivers to take breaks during long-distance journeys to prevent fatigue-related mishaps.

SOP in Force Across Odisha Till February

Recently, the STA issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) directing all RTOs in Odisha to conduct a special road safety campaign from November 16 to February 28.
According to official data, road accidents claim over 5,000 lives every year in Odisha. In the last decade, more than 47,000 people have died and over 1 lakh individuals have sustained serious injuries in road mishaps.

The authority highlighted that the highest number of accidents occur between November and February, making public awareness and precautionary measures essential.

Cyclone Ditwah Likely to Make Landfall on November 30

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts regarding Cyclone Ditwah, which is expected to make landfall on November 30.
The storm, currently located over the southwest Bay of Bengal and Sri Lanka coast, is moving in a north-northwest direction.

According to IMD predictions, the cyclone may strike the coasts of north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh.

Heavy Rainfall and Strong Winds Forecast

Under the influence of the cyclone, strong winds and heavy to very heavy rainfall are likely over multiple regions.
Several districts of Tamil Nadu are expected to receive extremely heavy rainfall today, while heavy to very heavy rainfall is predicted over parts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh till December 1.

IMD has issued Red and Orange Alerts for coastal areas, advising residents to remain vigilant.

Fishermen Advised to Stay Away from Sea

Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea and to return to the coast immediately due to high waves and dangerous weather conditions.

Tamil Nadu Districts Take Precautionary Measures

Authorities in Tamil Nadu have begun preparations to handle the potential impact of Cyclone Ditwah.
All schools in Villupuram district have been declared closed today.
Heightened alert measures have also been implemented in Cuddalore district to ensure public safety.

The post STA Issues Winter Driving Advisory as Fog Increases Accident Risk; IMD Warns of Cyclone Ditwah Impact appeared first on Odisha Connect.

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Heat to Hail in Hours: North Odisha on Orange Alert as 4-Day Thunderstorm Spree Begins