Bhubaneswar: Despite the weakening of Cyclone Arnab, its effects are still causing rainfall throughout Odisha, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an orange alert for three districts on Thursday.

Western Odisha is expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, along with thunderstorms and strong winds in various locations.

The districts of Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, and Bargarh are under the orange alert, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 20 cm of rain. Additionally, thunderstorms with wind gusts reaching 60 km/h are anticipated. Local residents have been advised to stay vigilant as the heavy rain may disrupt daily activities.

The IMD also predicts significant rainfall in Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balangir, Nuapada, Subarnapur, Deogarh, Sambalpur, and Balasore, where isolated regions could see rainfall between 7 cm and 11 cm.

In contrast, several districts along the coast and in central and southern Odisha, including Cuttack, Puri, Khordha, Ganjam, Kalahandi, Koraput, and Malkangiri, do not have specific heavy rainfall warnings. Nonetheless, these areas may still encounter scattered rainfall, along with possible lightning and thunderstorms.

Wind speeds are projected to reach 30-40 km/h in some districts, with gusts potentially hitting 50 km/h. Certain areas may experience sustained winds of 40-50 km/h, along with gusts reaching 60 km/h.

The IMD has confirmed that the warning will be active from 8:30 am on Thursday until 8:30 am on Friday, October 30.

Officials have warned that continued heavy rainfall could lead to waterlogging in low-lying regions and other disruptions. Residents in western and northern Odisha are particularly urged to remain cautious and heed official weather updates.