Bhubaneswar, July 12: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has on Sunday issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across several districts of Odisha on Monday, July 13. The weather agency has also forecast heavy rainfall in Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj districts.

According to the IMD weather bulletin released on Sunday, thunderstorms with lightning and surface winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph are expected at one or two places in Baleshwar, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Sundargarh, Kendujhar, Mayurbhanj, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khordha and Nayagarh districts.

The department has further predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places in Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj. In addition, hot and humid weather conditions are likely to persist in parts of Baleshwar, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khordha and Nayagarh.

The IMD has advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity and take necessary precautions against lightning and strong winds.

People have been urged to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering under trees, keep away from electric poles and water bodies, and follow weather advisories issued by local authorities to ensure their safety.