Bhubaneswar, July 8:The spell of heavy rainfall across Odisha has eased, bringing relief to flood-prone areas as river water levels continue to recede. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast largely dry weather across most parts of the state till July 11, with only isolated spells of rain expected in northern districts.

The low-pressure system that triggered widespread rainfall over Odisha has weakened into a well-marked low-pressure area and is expected to weaken further over the next 24 hours. As rainfall in the upper catchment areas has reduced significantly, water levels in most rivers have started falling. However, the Mahanadi at Naraj remains an exception, with the river still witnessing a gradual rise in water level.

According to the IMD, light rainfall is likely at a few places in Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj on Wednesday. On July 9, thunderstorms accompanied by rain may occur in Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj, while isolated rainfall is also likely over parts of northern Odisha on July 10 and 11.

Jharsuguda recorded the highest rainfall in the state during the past 24 hours with 60.8 mm, followed by Sambalpur (58.8 mm), Bargarh (52.4 mm), Sundargarh (50.6 mm), Nuapada (47 mm) and Deogarh (30.2 mm).

The water level of the Mahanadi at Naraj continues to rise and currently stands at 24.65 metres, against the danger level of 26.41 metres. Meanwhile, the Hirakud Reservoir is scheduled to release this year's first floodwater on July 9. Officials said that although the release and any additional upstream inflow may cause a slight rise in the Mahanadi and its tributaries, no significant impact is anticipated.

Elsewhere, river levels have shown a declining trend. The Baitarani River at Akhuapada, which had crossed the warning level on Monday, has now receded. Water levels in the Brahmani, Budhabalanga, Subarnarekha and Jalaka rivers are also well below their respective warning levels.