weather news: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Feb 19: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday issued an orange warning for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, gusty winds (40-50 kmph), and hailstorms in several districts of Odisha from February 19 to 22. The affected districts include Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Bhadrak, Sundargarh, Jajpur, and Dhenkanal.
According to the IMD, a trough extending from Gangetic West Bengal to Telangana at an altitude of 0.9 km above mean sea level is influencing the current weather conditions. This system is expected to trigger intense thunderstorm activity in parts of the state.
The weather agency has warned of minor damage to loose and unsecured structures, banana plantations, and ripe paddy crops. Citizens have been advised to seek shelter during thunderstorms, follow urban traffic advisories, and farmers are encouraged to use hail nets to protect crops and vegetables. Additionally, authorities have recommended judicious regulation of crop harvesting to minimize losses.
A yellow warning for thunderstorms with lightning has been issued for various districts until February 23. However, the IMD clarified that night temperatures are likely to remain stable over the next 4-5 days.
