Bhubaneswar, July 3: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast intense rainfall across Odisha over the next four days, issuing orange and yellow alerts for several districts due to a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal.
Yellow Alert for Western Odisha Today
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar has placed Boudh, Sonepur, Bargarh, Balangir, and Nuapada under a yellow warning for Thursday. These districts may witness moderate to heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds of 30–40 km/h. Residents have been urged to take precautions, especially in low-lying and open areas.
Orange Alert for Northern Districts
A more severe orange warning has been issued for Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar, where heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected. The IMD warns of potential flooding, waterlogging, and reduced visibility, which may affect transportation and power supply. People in these areas are advised to stay indoors and prepare emergency essentials.
Monsoon Activity Strengthens
The current spell of rain is being driven by a low-pressure area over Gangetic West Bengal and nearby northern Odisha and Jharkhand, supported by a cyclonic circulation extending up to 5.8 km above sea level. The system is slowly moving west-northwestward over Jharkhand, intensifying rainfall in surrounding regions.
Southern Odisha Already Impacted
In southern Odisha, districts like Koraput are already facing the brunt of the rains. Overnight downpours on Tuesday caused rivers to swell, submerging roads. A temporary bridge near Bangalaguda was rendered unusable on Wednesday, with nearly two feet of water flowing over it, cutting off vehicular traffic.
