Balasore, August 20: Flood conditions have worsened across northern Balasore as the Subarnarekha River continues to flow well above the danger mark, inundating large areas and disrupting normal life. Strong currents have entered residential areas, leaving many people trapped inside their homes.

In Bhograi block, as many as 20 gram panchayats remain completely cut off due to floodwaters. Water levels are rising in riverside areas such as Kumbhiragadi and Aruhabartti, while low-lying areas including Gab, Kusuda, Kharida Pipala, Chirakula and Nachinda are severely affected.

Floodwater has entered several houses, while strong currents outside homes have made it difficult for residents to venture out. Many villages are struggling with communication and transportation as roads remain submerged.

The situation has also deteriorated along the Jalaka and Budhabalanga rivers, adding to concerns among people living in riverbank areas. Bhograi, Baliapal and Jaleswar blocks are among the worst affected. According to the latest assessment, 123 villages in Balasore district remain waterlogged or cut off.

The flooding has been attributed in part to heavy rainfall in the plateau regions of Jharkhand following the formation of a low-pressure system, which has led to a rise in the Subarnarekha and other rivers.

The Subarnarekha's danger level is 10.36 metres, while the Budhabalanga and Jalka have danger marks of 8.13 metres and 6.50 metres, respectively. By evening, the rivers were flowing at 11.30 metres, 6.80 metres and 6.52 metres.

While the Budhabalanga remains below its danger mark, flood conditions persist in several riverside areas. The Jalka, meanwhile, continues to flow above the danger level.

Authorities have warned that the flood situation in the Subarnarekha basin could persist for another one to two days, with conditions likely to remain difficult in northern Balasore. The district administration has urged residents in low-lying areas to remain vigilant and strictly follow government advisories.