Weather Alert / Odisha Braces for More Floods as Low Pressure Intensifies

Bhubaneswar, Aug 24: A low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal has intensified, bringing widespread rainfall and flood concerns across Odisha, Jharkhand, and Gangetic West Bengal.

The associated cyclonic circulation extends up to 7.6 km above sea level, and meteorologists predict the system will move northwestward over the next 24 hours, crossing Jharkhand and northern Odisha.

The Regional Meteorological Centre has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in Baragada, Sonepur, Boudh, Sambalpur, and Jharsuguda districts until August 30.

Also read: Odisha Govt Rushes Drainage Fix to Tackle Waterlogging amid Flood Chaos

A yellow warning has been issued for 24 other districts, forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 30-40 km/h. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea as coastal waters are expected to remain rough for the next 24 hours.

Rainfall records show four locations received extremely heavy showers, while 47 stations reported heavy rainfall. Kendujhar’s Joda recorded the highest at 169.4 mm. Since June 1, Odisha has received 1,080.6 mm of rainfall, 29% above normal, with Ganjam being the only district reporting deficit rainfall.

Flood situations are emerging in several rivers. The Baitarani river crossed the danger mark of 18.33 meters near Akhuapada, raising fears of water entering nearby habitations.

In Nabarangpur district, rising water levels in Indravati forced authorities to open one gate of the dam, leading to flooding in Kotpad block. Villages such as Chandili, Suruli, Dhamana Handi, and Bania have been affected, with tehsil staff assisting in evacuations. The gate has since been closed to control further inflow.

Officials warn that persistent rainfall in upper catchments may keep river levels high. Relief teams are on standby, and district administrations have been instructed to monitor vulnerable areas closely.