Bhubaneswar, July 25: Odisha is facing widespread disruption due to intense rainfall triggered by a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, which has now intensified into a depression. Heavy rains have wreaked havoc across the State, cutting off villages, submerging roads, and disrupting power and communication networks

In Malkangiri, a landslide in Bayapada Ghati has caused severe damage, submerged the Kanyashram Bridge and cut off access between Podia and Kalimela. Korukonda block has been hit hard, with floodwater isolating 18 villages from the outside world.

In Kantamal area of Boudh district, roads are submerged, and bridges like Tuni Munda Meheruni are under three feet of water, halting transport between Dapala and Lambeswari.

Subarnapur district’s Binika region witnessed the collapse of four electric poles, disrupting power supply in several areas including Nuapali, Jabda, Danipali, and Sahulpur.

In Mayurbhanj, relentless rain forced the closure of all schools, and emergency shelters have been activated. Fire services and ODRAF teams are on standby, according to Additional District Magistrate Netrananda Mallik.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj, and Orange Warnings for 10 other districts in the next 24 hours, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall and potential flooding.

The IMD has predicted continued heavy rainfall until July 28, with warnings of waterlogging in low-lying areas, landslides, and flash floods. Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea.

Meanwhile, the Hirakud Dam has opened 20 gates to release excess water, with the current water level at 609.39 feet, nearing its full capacity of 630 feet.

The Water Resources Department has issued advisories for flood-prone zones, urging residents to remain vigilant.