Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red, orange and yellow warnings for 16 districts of Odisha till 5.40 pm on Sunday.
Severe thunderstorm/lightning accompanied by strong winds at 60-70 kmph, moderate to intense spell of rain may affect some parts of districts of Nayagarh district.
The weather agency has warned of minor damage to power and communication lines due to breaking of branc
hes, waterlogging in low-lying areas, some damage to standing crops, banana, papaya trees and orchards. People have been advised to take shelter in concrete structures and avoid standing under trees. Also move away from electric poles and wires.
Orange warning of moderate thunderstorm/lightning, moderate rain with gusty surface wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph is also likely in Kandhamal, Ganjam, Rayagada, Koraput, Boudh, Cuttack and Angul districts.
Under its impact, there could be minor damage to loose/unsecured structures, banana trees and standing crops may occur. People have advised to keep a watch on the weather and move to safer places.
Light to moderate thunderstorm/lightning and light to moderate rain and gusty surface wind speed reaching 30-40 kmph may also occur in some parts of Dhenkanal, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Keonjhar, Nupada, Deogarh, Nabarangpur and Balangir districts in next two hours.
People have been advised to keep a watch on the weather and accordingly move to safer places to protect themselves from lightning strikes.