Bhubaneswar, Sept. 14 -- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast rain across several parts of Odisha from September 14 to 19. The rainfall may affect Ganesh Puja and Nuakhai celebrations in the state.

A yellow alert has been issued for heavy rainfall in 18 districts across northern and southern Odisha on Monday. The warning comes as the state prepares to observe the two festivals.

The districts under the alert are Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Khordha, Puri, Nayagarh, Sonepur, Boudh, Bolangir, Kandhamal, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Kalahandi, Nuapada, Koraput, Nabarangpur and Malkangiri.

Rain accompanied by lightning and thunder may also occur in some other parts of the state.

The weather office has forecast heavy rai...