Bhubaneswar, Sep 2: Odisha is on high alert as continuous rainfall has led to rising water levels in several major rivers, including Baitarani, Budhabalanga, Jalaka, and Subarnarekha.

According to Chandrasekhar Padhi, Engineer-in-Chief of the Water Resources Department, recent rainfall measurements show 43.07 mm in Budhabalanga, 30.65 mm in Baitarani, and 20.97 mm in Subarnarekha, triggering upward trends in water levels and prompting flood warnings.

The situation is particularly tense in Balasore, where urban flooding has already affected several areas. Similarly, heavy rainfall in Keonjhar’s Ghasipura and Hatadihi regions has intensified the risk of overflow in nearby rivers. Authorities are closely monitoring the rainfall patterns to determine whether the danger mark will be breached.

At Hirakud Dam, the water level has reached 626.31 feet, while Rengali reservoir stands at 122.73 meters. Decisions regarding the opening of dam gates will be taken based on further rainfall and inflow data. Officials have assured that any gate operations will be executed with caution to prevent downstream flooding.

The Water Resources Department has issued a yellow alert and advised district administrations to remain vigilant. Emergency teams have been deployed in vulnerable zones, and evacuation plans are being readied in case the situation worsens.

While the rainfall is expected to ease in the coming days, the next 24 hours remain critical. If precipitation continues at the current rate, flood signals may escalate to red alert levels. Citizens are urged to stay informed through official channels and avoid low-lying areas.