Bhubaneswar, Sep 10: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday issued orange and yellow warnings for heavy rainfall across Odisha on Thursday and Friday, due to a cyclonic circulation over the southern part of the state and adjoining northern coastal Andhra Pradesh.

According to IMD’s latest bulletin, the upper air cyclonic circulation over South Odisha and north Coastal Andhra Pradesh extended upto 3.1 km above mean sea level persists. The IMD predicted that the system could trigger moderate to heavy rainfall in isolated pockets, with potential for waterlogging and reduced visibility.

The IMD issued an Orange warning for heavy rainfall over Malkangiri district and yellow alert for Koraput, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar districts on Thursday. Similarly, a yellow warning has been issued for Nabarangpur, Nuapada, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar districts for the next day.

Director of the Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre, Manorama Mohanty stated that the upper air cyclonic circulation is the primary driver of the current weather activity. The system is expected to persist over the next 48 hours, bringing widespread rain and potential thunderstorms.

The authorities urged residents to remain alert, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Farmers and commuters have been advised to monitor weather updates and take necessary precautions to avoid disruptions.