Bhubaneswar, Sept 17: The upcoming Durga Puja celebrations in Odisha may be affected by rain, as meteorological models predict the formation of a low-pressure system over the north and adjoining central Bay of Bengal around September 25 or 26.
According to Professor Surendranath Pasupalak, a senior meteorologist, this system is likely to intensify into a depression, bringing significant rainfall to various parts of the state. The weather is expected to start changing from September 26, with moderate rainfall likely on the 27th and 28th across many regions of Odisha.
Southern Odisha may experience heavy rainfall, while other parts of the state could also receive heavy showers. The 28th of September, which coincides with Shasthi Puja, and the following Saptami, may witness rain during key Durga Puja rituals.
The low-pressure system is expected to move inland through western Odisha, into Chhattisgarh, and further towards Nagpur by September 29, potentially continuing rainfall activity in its path. Rain is also possible on the 29th, after which conditions are expected to improve. Dry weather is likely to prevail from September 30 onwards, according to initial forecasts.
A clearer and more accurate forecast will be available by September 21, Prof. Pasupalak added.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thundershowers with lightning in coastal and interior Odisha on September 17.
