Weather Alert / Odisha Braces for More Rain, Flood Alert Issued

Bhubaneswar, Sep 13: Odisha continues to reel under persistent rainfall triggered by a low-pressure system. The Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar has forecast that showers will continue for another 24 hours, with the impact likely to last until September 17 due to the active low-pressure and cyclonic circulation over southern Chhattisgarh and adjoining areas.

Regional Director Manorama Mohanty confirmed that seven districts — Nabarangpur, Koraput, Kalahandi, Malkangiri, Balangir, Nuapada, and Baragada — have been placed under a yellow warning for heavy rainfall.

Other districts are expected to witness thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and wind speeds ranging between 40 to 50 kmph.

Also read: Depression/Deep Depression May Strike Around September 22

In the past 24 hours, Chitrakonda in Malkangiri recorded the highest rainfall at 192 mm. Since June 1, Odisha has received 1,255.4 mm of rainfall, which is 22 per cent above normal levels. Officials warn that further heavy showers are likely in the coming days.

The situation in Malkangiri district has already turned serious after just 48 hours of continuous rain. Floodwaters have submerged several low-lying bridges, disrupting connectivity.

On National Highway 326 near Poteru, water has once again flowed over a low bridge, halting traffic. At one point, floodwaters rose nearly one foot above the bridge, cutting off communication temporarily before subsiding at midnight. However, rising waters have again affected movement across the bridge.

Authorities report that communication links with Kalimela and Podia blocks have been disrupted. To tackle the situation, a 36-member ODRAF team has been deployed in the district, with additional teams sent to Kalimela and Mathili blocks.

Officials caution that if the rainfall continues, conditions may worsen further.