Bhubaneswar: The southwest monsoon has made its way into parts of Odisha, arriving in the southern regions earlier than expected, as reported by meteorological officials.

In the next few days, the monsoon is anticipated to spread further across the state.

Previously, the monsoon had reached Kerala ahead of schedule, arriving nearly a week before the usual June 1 date, marking the earliest onset since 2009.

Heavy rainfall has already impacted various areas of Odisha due to a 'well-marked' low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, with additional rain expected until May 30, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

An 'Orange' alert has been issued for five districts—Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Cuttack, Koraput, and Rayagada—where thunderstorms and lightning with wind speeds of 40-50 km/h are predicted.

The IMD noted that the low-pressure area over the Northwest Bay of Bengal has intensified and is expected to move northward, potentially developing into a depression within the next 24 hours.

Due to this weather system, Odisha is likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall until May 30.

Fishermen have been advised against venturing into deep waters from May 29 to June 1.

Manorama Mohanty, director of the Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, stated that rainfall is expected across all districts in Odisha.

She added that the low-pressure system will create favorable conditions for the monsoon's arrival in the next couple of days.

Typically, the southwest monsoon reaches Odisha around June 10, but this year it is set to arrive earlier.

In response to the IMD's heavy rain forecast, the Odisha government has placed all districts on alert.

The Special Relief Commissioner's Office has instructed district officials to be ready for any emergencies due to the adverse weather conditions.