The sweltering heat will finally take a respite, owing to the Indian Meteorological Department’s (IMD) forecast of thunderstorms and significant rainfall throughout the state. The maximum temperature is projected to decrease by 3-5 degrees Celsius over the following two days, providing much-needed reprieve to residents.
This break from the heat is entirely owing to the arrival of Kalabaisakhi (a nor’westerly rain system). Kalabaisakhi is a meteorological phenomena that occurs in India in April and May. It is marked by unexpected weather changes, strong winds, and thunderstorms.
Rain and thunderstorms can cause a dramatic drop in temperature, making the weather more comfortable.
The regional weather office has issued an orange alert for various districts on March 20-21, including Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jharsuguda, and Sundargarh, where heavy rains and thunderstorms are predicted. A yellow alert has also been issued for Sambalpur, Deogarh, Boudh, Angul, and Jajpur districts.
An orange alert has been issued for Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Bhadrak, Sundargarh, and Jharsuguda districts on March 21-22, with thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds expected. A yellow alert has been issued for the following districts: Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Khurda, Nayagarh, Boudh, Bolangir, Nuapada, and Sonepur.