Bhubaneswar, July 1 (UDN): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a nowcast warning for 14 districts of Odisha, forecasting thunderstorms with lightning, light to moderate rainfall, and gusty winds reaching up to 40 kmph over the next three hours.
The districts likely to be affected are Angul, Ganjam, Kendrapara, Dhenkanal, Nayagarh, Puri, Gajapati, Jagatsinghpur, Bargarh, Sonepur, Kandhamal, Sambalpur, Jajpur, and Cuttack, including Cuttack city.
The weather office has advised residents to remain alert as conditions may change rapidly. People are encouraged to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid open areas, and take shelter away from tall trees, electric poles, and other vulnerable structures to minimize the risk of lightning strikes.
Motorists should exercise caution while driving, as rainfall may lead to poor visibility and slippery road conditions. Farmers, outdoor workers, and travellers are also advised to monitor local weather updates and postpone non-essential outdoor activities until the weather improves.
Authorities have urged the public to follow safety advisories and remain vigilant throughout the warning period.