Bhubaneswar: Rain continued to lash several parts of Odisha on Wednesday under the influence of an active low-pressure system over the region, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting that the wet spell is likely to persist for at least the next two days. Since the onset of this phase of monsoon activity during the Rath Yatra period, widespread rainfall has been recorded across the state, prompting weather alerts for multiple districts.
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar has issued an Orange Warning for Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Bargarh and Nuapada districts, where isolated places are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also expected in these districts, raising concerns over localized flooding, waterlogging and disruption to normal life.
Yellow Warning Issued For 17 Districts
Apart from the five districts under the Orange Alert, the IMD has placed 17 districts under a Yellow Warning. These include Deogarh, Sonepur, Balangir, Boudh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Kandhamal, Kalahandi and Nabarangpur.
These areas are likely to witness thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and heavy rainfall at isolated locations during the day. The weather office has urged residents to remain cautious, particularly during thunderstorm activity, and avoid taking shelter under trees or venturing into open fields.
Monsoon Activity To Continue
According to meteorologists, the prevailing low-pressure system continues to strengthen monsoon conditions over Odisha, leading to persistent rainfall across both coastal and interior districts. While rainfall has brought relief from high temperatures and benefited agricultural activities, continuous showers have also increased the risk of waterlogging in low-lying areas and localized flooding.
The IMD expects the system to remain active over the next 48 hours, keeping rainfall intensity high in several parts of western, northern and central Odisha.
Authorities On Alert
District administrations in vulnerable regions have been advised to remain prepared for possible rain-related incidents, including urban flooding, traffic disruptions and damage caused by strong winds or lightning. Disaster response teams are also monitoring the evolving weather situation closely.
People living in low-lying and flood-prone areas have been advised to stay alert, while commuters have been urged to exercise caution during periods of heavy rain.
The IMD has also asked fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea if adverse weather conditions persist along the Odisha coast and has urged the public to follow official weather advisories for the latest updates.
