Bhubaneswar: A fresh low-pressure area has formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal adjoining the West Bengal-Odisha coast, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to forecast widespread rainfall across Odisha over the next five days. The weather system is expected to intensify over the next 48 hours, bringing heavy to very heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and rough sea conditions to several parts of the state.
The Regional Meteorological Centre, Bhubaneswar, said the low-pressure system is likely to strengthen further, increasing monsoon activity across coastal, interior, and western Odisha. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant as the state braces for another spell of intense rainfall.
Orange Warning Issued for Four Districts
The IMD has issued an Orange Warning for Keonjhar, Angul, Dhenkanal, and Cuttack districts, where isolated places are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall during the warning period.
Residents in these districts have been advised to remain cautious as intense rain could lead to waterlogging, reduced visibility, and localized flooding, particularly in low-lying areas.
Yellow Warning for 16 Districts
A Yellow Warning has been issued for 16 districts, including:
- Puri
- Khurda
- Nayagarh
- Jagatsinghpur
- Kendrapara
- Jajpur
- Bhadrak
- Balasore
- Mayurbhanj
- Sundargarh
- Jharsuguda
- Deogarh
- Sambalpur
- Bargarh
- Sonepur
- Boudh
These districts are likely to experience heavy rainfall at isolated places, accompanied by gusty winds.
Gusty Winds and Rain to Affect Several Regions
The weather office has forecast surface wind speeds of 30 to 40 kmph in many affected districts during the active weather spell. The combined impact of heavy rain and strong winds may result in fallen tree branches, temporary disruptions to power supply, and hazardous travel conditions in some areas.
The IMD has cautioned that persistent rainfall could affect road connectivity, reduce visibility for motorists, and cause traffic congestion in urban centres.
Fishermen Advised Not to Venture into the Sea
With sea conditions expected to remain rough under the influence of the low-pressure system, the IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea until July 27.
Those currently out at sea have been asked to return to the coast at the earliest. Coastal residents have also been urged to remain alert and strictly follow advisories issued by local authorities and disaster management agencies.
Authorities Urge Vigilance
The IMD said the weather system is likely to keep rainfall activity active across coastal, interior, and western Odisha over the coming days. Localised waterlogging, urban flooding, and disruptions to normal life cannot be ruled out in vulnerable areas.
Authorities have advised people to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall, monitor official weather updates, and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety.
