Bhubaneswar: Severe thunderstorm accompanied by gusty wind, lightning and intense rain is likely to hit at least three districts of Odisha on Friday evening, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a nowcast warning.
In a message issued at 4.45 pm, the IMD sounded red warning for Jajpur, Bhadrak and Kendrapada. Severe thunderstorm accompanied by gusty wind speed reaching 60-70 kmph, lightning and moderate to intense spell of rain may affect these districts in next two hours.
Under its impact, damage to thatched huts, standing crops and power and communication lines due to breaking of tree branches, and waterlogging may occur.
People have been advised to take shelter in pukka structures and avoid taking shelter under trees and move away from electric poles and wires.