Bhubaneswar, July 4: Odisha witnessed widespread rainfall under the influence of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, with Koraput recording the highest rainfall of 69.2 mm during the last 12 hours. Balangir followed closely with 67 mm of rainfall.
Several other districts also received substantial precipitation. Sonepur recorded 52 mm, Bhubaneswar 45.6 mm, Dhenkanal and Khordha 41 mm each, Bhadrak 40.2 mm, and Cuttack 32.4 mm.
The incessant rainfall has caused waterlogging in several low-lying areas, disrupting normal life in many parts of the state.
As the weather system is expected to intensify, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Warning for Sunday for Bargarh, Sambalpur, and Nuapada districts, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, with extremely heavy rainfall likely at one or two places.
AnOrange Warninghas been issued for Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Deogarh, Sonepur, Balangir, and Kalahandi, where heavy to very heavy rainfall is very likely at isolated locations.
Meanwhile, aYellow Warninghas been sounded for Balasore, Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Boudh, Kandhamal, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri, with heavy rainfall expected at one or two places.
The State Emergency Operation Centre remains on round-the-clock alert, while district administrations have been directed to stay prepared to deal with any rain-related emergencies. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, and residents of vulnerable and low-lying areas have been urged to remain vigilant and follow advisories issued by local authorities.
