Bhubaneswar, Jul 6: The Odisha government has issued a precautionary alert for parts of Jajpur and Bhadrak districts as the Baitarani River continues to swell following heavy rainfall across the state, raising the possibility of a minor flood situation.

Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department, Dillip Rout, said Odisha has received rainfall above the seasonal average, resulting in a steady rise in the river's water level. He warned that low-lying areas, particularly in Jajpur district, are vulnerable if the river continues to rise.

According to the department's projections, the Baitarani River at Akhuapada is expected to cross the danger mark at around 4 pm on Monday. Floodwaters are likely to inundate low-lying pockets of Jajpur and Bhadrak, with Akhuapada and nearby villages expected to be among the worst affected.

However, Rout clarified that there is no immediate threat of a major flood. He said water levels in the state's major reservoirs remain well within safe limits and are being closely monitored.

On the Hirakud Dam, the Chief Engineer said no decision has been taken so far regarding the release of water through its gates.

District administrations in the vulnerable areas have been directed to remain on high alert, monitor embankments and riverbanks, and take necessary precautionary measures to tackle any emerging flood situation.

Meanwhile, the Water Resources Department reported that the Mahanadi and Baitarani river basins recorded the highest average areal rainfall in Odisha during the latest spell of monsoon showers.

Data released by the department showed that Lower Mahanadi recorded the highest Average Areal Precipitation (AAP) at 75.1 mm, followed by Upper Mahanadi at 72.8 mm. Lower Brahmani received 62.7 mm, while the Baitarani basin recorded 56.1 mm.

Among other river basins, Budhabalang received 35.4 mm rainfall, Upper Brahmani 32.1 mm, Rushikulya 28.4 mm, Subarnarekha 26.3 mm and Vamsadhara 26.2 mm. The lowest rainfall was recorded in the Sabari basin of the Godavari system at 17.6 mm, followed by Nagavali at 15.2 mm.

Officials said the situation is being monitored round the clock, and further decisions will be taken depending on rainfall intensity and river discharge over the next 24 hours.