Bhubaneswar, July 28: The Odisha Government has warned a major flood threat in river Baitarani by Tuesday eveing following the low pressure-induced heavy rainfall in the State over the last few days.

Dillip Kumar Rout, Engineer-in-Chief, Water Resources Department said the flood is likely to hit Baitarani, Jalaka and Salandi rivers by today evening.

“Heavy rainfall due to the low pressure system has been witnessed in north Odisha. The highest rainfall was recorded in Nilgiri of Balasore district. Heavy rain has also occurred in Mayurbhanj and Balasore districts. Hence, there is a possibility of flood in the Jalaka, Salandi and Baitarani rivers by this evening. Baitarani river may witness a major flood by today evening. Water levels are likely to start receding after the next 24 hours,” said Rout.

He said that Dhamnagar, Dasarathpur and Chandabali of Bhadrak district will be severely affected due to the possible flood situation.

Although the water level at Akhuapada has not yet reached the danger mark, it is expected to cross the danger level by this evening, said Rout, adding that the district administration will carry out the evacuation drive.

The Jalaka river near Makhani bridge is expected to flow at 6.8 to 7 metres by this evening.

Though Mahanadi recorded peak flood yesterday evening, but the water level has receded by 12 noon today. The water level at Mundali is also receding, said Rout.

Rout also said that waterlogging may occur in Puri, Jagatsinghpur and Kendrapara districts, he added.

He also informed no additional gates of Hirakud dam will be opened for the next two days. Currently, floodwater is being released through two gates.