Bhubaneswar, July 17: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday forecast heavy rainfall across several parts of Odisha for the next three days under the influence of a low‑pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, officials said.

The system, which lay over Gangetic West Bengal and adjoining Jharkhand and north Odisha on Friday, is expected to weaken gradually within 24 hours, according to IMD Bhubaneswar Director Manorama Mohanty.

A ‘yellow alert’ has been issued for heavy rainfall in Sundargarh, Bargarh, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Nuapada and Bolangir districts on Saturday. On Sunday, heavy downpour is likely at one or two places in Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj, while similar conditions are expected in Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj on Monday. Light to moderate rainfall may occur in several other parts of the state till July 22.

On Friday, Baripada in Mayurbhanj district recorded the highest rainfall at 34.2 mm, followed by Bolangir at 15 mm. Malkangiri registered 14.2 mm, Jharsuguda 11.6 mm, Nuapada and Sonepur 8 mm each, while Daringibadi in Kandhamal district received 5 mm, the IMD bulletin stated.

Also Read: NHAI Plants 1.14 Lakh Saplings Across Odisha Highways

Officials noted that Odisha has received an average rainfall of 446.9 mm during the current monsoon season till Friday, which is 17 per cent above the normal of 382.8 mm. The surplus rainfall is expected to aid agriculture but may also trigger localised flooding in vulnerable districts if heavy showers persist.

The IMD has advised residents in the alerted districts to remain cautious and avoid waterlogged areas. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to ensure preparedness against possible disruptions in transport and daily life. With the monsoon remaining active, Odisha is likely to experience widespread showers until early next week.