India, July 15 -- As thousands of devotees arrive in Odisha's holy city for Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for heavy rainfall in Puri. The weather warning comes amid a surge of pilgrims from several states who have gathered to witness the grand chariot festival of Lord Jagannath.

The IMD has warned that heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely not only in Puri but also in several other districts of Odisha due to a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. The department has also cautioned that thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds may accompany the rain activity.

Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026: Heavy Rain Likely in Puri During Rath Yatra

According to the IMD advisory, the low-...