Bhubaneswar: A well-marked low-pressure system over the region continued to lash Odisha with widespread rainfall on Saturday, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to place the state under a red alert. Persistent showers have affected several districts, leading to concerns over waterlogging, flash floods, and disruptions to normal life.
From Bhubaneswar to Bargarh and Malkangiri to Mayurbhanj, continuous rainfall was reported throughout the day as the weather system intensified across the state.
The IMD has urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow official advisories as the heavy rainfall is likely to continue over the next 24 hours.
Five Districts Under Red Alert
The weather department has issued a red alert for Kandhamal, Boudh, Angul, Sambalpur, and Sonepur districts, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places.
Authorities have cautioned that the intense rainfall may lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas, localized flooding, reduced visibility, and disruption of road transport. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and remain vigilant, particularly in flood-prone and landslide-sensitive regions.
Orange Alert Issued for Eight Districts
In addition to the red alert, the IMD has placed eight districts under an orange warning, indicating the likelihood of very heavy rainfall.
The districts under the orange alert are:
- Kalahandi
- Rayagada
- Gajapati
- Ganjam
- Nayagarh
- Cuttack
- Dhenkanal
- Keonjhar
District administrations have been asked to remain prepared for any emergency arising from heavy rainfall, including possible flooding, falling trees, and damage to vulnerable infrastructure.
Yellow Alert for Remaining Districts
The remaining 17 districts of Odisha have been placed under a yellow alert, with forecasts of heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds at isolated places.
Officials are closely monitoring the evolving weather situation and have advised people to stay updated through official weather bulletins.
Fishermen Advised Not to Venture into the Sea
With rough sea conditions prevailing along the Odisha coast under the influence of the low-pressure system, the IMD has reiterated its advisory asking fishermen not to venture into the sea until weather conditions improve.
Strong winds, high waves, and turbulent sea conditions are expected to continue over the next couple of days, posing significant risks to fishing vessels and coastal activities.
Rainfall Expected to Ease Gradually from Sunday
While the low-pressure system is expected to gradually weaken, the IMD has indicated that Odisha may witness slight relief from the widespread rainfall beginning Sunday.
However, heavy to very heavy rainfall is still likely over parts of northern and western Odisha.
For Sunday, the weather department has issued an orange alert for three districts and a yellow alert for 10 districts, indicating that rainfall activity will persist, although its intensity and geographical distribution are expected to reduce compared to Saturday.
Authorities on Alert
State authorities continue to monitor the weather situation closely and are coordinating with district administrations to ensure preparedness for any rain-related emergencies.
Residents have been advised to avoid waterlogged areas, remain indoors during thunderstorms, secure loose objects, and follow instructions issued by local authorities and disaster management agencies.
With the monsoon remaining active over the state, officials have urged citizens to stay informed through IMD updates and exercise caution until the weather conditions improve.
