Crisis looms on Jagannath Rath Yatra! ‘Red Alert’ of heavy rain in Odisha; Continued, devotees arrived in large numbers

IMD Odisha Weather Forecast 16 July: Amidst the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra starting from Thursday (July 16) in Odisha, the Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rains in most parts of the state for the next few days. While talking to the media on Wednesday, IMD Bhubaneswar Director Manorama Mohanty said that there is a possibility of heavy rain in the state due to the clear low pressure area formed in the north-west Bay of Bengal and its adjoining areas.

He said that this system may become stronger and move towards the north. According to Mohanty, this weather system may become stronger in the next 24 hours. Under its influence, widespread rainfall is likely to occur over most parts of the state for the next three to four days. He said that on July 15, heavy to very heavy rainfall may occur at some places in many districts, while the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall in some areas cannot be ruled out.

Devotees arrived in large numbers

Preparations have been made for the Rath Yatra of Mahaprabhu Jagannath across the country including Puri in Odisha. A large number of devotees have reached Puri to participate in the Rath Yatra. It is raining intermittently here. Even after this, preparations for the Rath Yatra are in full swing. The administration and police are alert for the smooth conduct of the Rath Yatra.

#WATCH | Puri, Odisha | Nandighosha, Darpadalana, and Taladhwaja – the three chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra have been placed at Singhadwara of Puri Jagannath temple ahead of the annual Rath Yatra, which will begin today. pic.twitter.com/4tfv4nuOQo

— ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2026

Chance of heavy rain in Odisha

According to IMD, widespread rain is likely to continue in the state on July 16 and 17. During this period, heavy to very heavy rain may occur at some places. The intensity of rain is expected to gradually reduce from July 18, but light to moderate and widespread rain may continue over many districts till July 19. Jagannath Rath Yatra is in danger due to the update of Meteorological Department.

Also read – Jagannath Rath YatraWhen Mother Lakshmi breaks the chariot of Lord Jagannath, know the story behind this unique tradition.

The Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Puri and Jagatsinghpur districts till 8:30 am on July 16. The department has warned of heavy to very heavy rain at some places and extremely heavy rain at one or two places in these districts. Manorama Mohanty said that there is a possibility of heavy, very heavy and extremely heavy rain in Puri. He said that heavy rains may continue in the coastal city of Puri on Thursday also.

advice not to go into the sea

IMD has also warned that the sea condition may remain rough to extremely rough in the sea area off the Odisha coast between July 15 and 17. During this period, strong winds can blow at a speed of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour, whose speed can reach up to 60 kilometers per hour with gusts.

The Meteorological Department has advised fishermen not to go into the sea during this period. Also, people of districts prone to heavy rains have been appealed to remain alert and follow the guidelines issued by the local administration.

(with agency input)