Bhubaneswar, March 16: Residents of Odisha are likely to get some relief from the scorching heat in the coming days. According to the forecast of the India Meteorological Department, the day temperature across the state is expected to drop by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius over the next five days.

The weather department has predicted light to moderate rainfall in several parts of the state till March 22, which may help bring down the temperature. After days of intense heat, a change in weather conditions was observed on Sunday.

As per the forecast, coastal Odisha along with districts such as Mayurbhanj district, Kendujhar district, Angul district, Dhenkanal district, Sundargarh district and Jharsuguda district are likely to witness light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms at one or two places.

An Orange Warning has been issued for Mayurbhanj district, where thunderstorms accompanied by hailstorms and gusty winds reaching speeds of 50–60 kmph are likely.

Thunderstorms with lightning are also expected at isolated places in districts including Sundargarh district, Kendujhar district, Balasore district, Bhadrak district, Puri district, Rayagada district, Koraput district, Malkangiri district, Khordha district, Nayagarh district, Ganjam district and Gajapati district.

On Tuesday, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is also likely at some places in Malkangiri district, Koraput district, Rayagada district, Gajapati district, Ganjam district, Mayurbhanj district, Kendujhar district, Balasore district, Bhadrak district and Nabarangpur district.

The weather department has indicated that similar conditions are likely to continue across the state till March 22, bringing temporary relief from the rising temperatures.