Storm in sight, Odisha on guard

BHUBANESWAR: With some weather forecast models suggesting the possible formation of a low-pressure area over the Andaman Sea by Friday, which may take the shape of a cyclonic storm this weekend, IMD director general Mrutyunjaya Mohapatra on Monday said a clearer picture would emerge after the weather system’s development.
“A low pressure is likely around May 6. However, whether it will further intensify into a storm can be known for certain by then. Usually, in May, there are good chances of low pressure pockets gaining strength and intensifying into a cyclone because of high temperature and high humidity,” Mohapatra said.
This forecast came amid that of chances of light to moderate rain or thunder storm at isolated places in some districts for the next four to five days bringing some relief from the heat.
On Monday, as many as 18 places in the state recorded a daytime temperature of 40°Celsius to 42° C. Sonewas the hottest at 43.2 degrees Celsius
For Tuesday, there is a forecast of thunderstorm with lightning at isolated places in several districts across the coastal and interior belts.