Bhubaneswar, Aug 21: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall in as many as seven districts of Odisha on Thursday.

The alert has been issued for the districts of Balasore, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, and Sambalpur.

In northern Odisha, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching 30–40 km/h are likely. However, the IMD clarified that the rainfall is not yet classified as widespread or continuous across the state.

On the other hand, Malkangiri district is facing a flood-like situation due to rain triggered by a low-pressure system. The Khairput–Kudumulugumma to Majurilendi road has been washed away, affecting connectivity for ten villages.

The Saberi River is overflowing, with three feet of water flowing over the Jhapa bridge, cutting off access between Malkangiri and Sukma in Chhattisgarh.

According to IMD, the current low-pressure system is likely to cause intense rainfall in both southern and northern Odisha, leading to waterlogging in low-lying areas.

Another low-pressure area may form over the northern Bay of Bengal on August 24, followed by a second system between August 27 and 28, potentially prolonging the wet spell.

Authorities have been advised to remain on high alert, especially in vulnerable regions, and emergency response teams are on standby to manage any escalation in flood conditions.

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