Bhubaneswar, June 27 -- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a statewide alert for thunderstorms and rainfall across Odisha over the next three days, warning residents to remain cautious as weather conditions are expected to remain unstable.

According to the forecast, Kandhamal and Koraput districts are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Saturday. In view of the adverse weather conditions, an Orange Warning has been issued for 10 districts, while 20 districts have been placed under a Yellow Warning due to the possibility of lightning and thunderstorms.

Weather officials have also warned of gusty surface winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour in several parts of the state. Residents have been advised to avoid ...