Bhubaneswar, Sept 5: Due to a low-pressure system active over the Bay of Bengal, many places in Odisha are experiencing continuous rainfall. The Jalaka River in Balasore district has crossed the danger mark at Mathani, flowing at 6.71 meters against the danger level of 6.50 meters. This has led to flood-like conditions in Basta and Sadar blocks, with water entering homes and farmlands.

Rain Batters Odisha

Balasore town has been waterlogged for five consecutive days, with rainwater flooding streets, alleys, and residential areas. Residents are facing severe inconvenience due to stagnant water and poor drainage. Thousands of hectares of farmland are submerged, raising concerns over crop damage and food security.

Rivers In Spate

In Bhadrak district, the Baitarani River is swelling near Akhuapada and has breached its banks in Chandbali block’s Olaga panchayat. Roads in Bodakotha are under two feet of water, disrupting transportation and flooding agricultural lands.

Floodwater Released

To manage rising inflows, 24 gates of the Hirakud Dam have been opened, releasing over 3.36 lakh cusecs of water. Officials expect the flow to increase to 4.5–5 lakh cusecs by September 7. The Water Resources Department has alerted district administrations and reinforced embankments with sandbags.

IMD Issues Yellow Warning

The Regional Meteorological Centre has issued a yellow warning for heavy rainfall across all districts for the next 48 hours. The low-pressure system is expected to move southeastward toward the central Bay of Bengal, intensifying rainfall until September 10.

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