Weather Alert / Rainfall Eases in Odisha, But Fresh Downpour Expected from August 2

Bhubaneswar, Jul 30: Odisha is set to witness a temporary decline in rainfall from Thursday, though thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds are expected across several districts.

The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning for 18 districts, including Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati, Nayagarh, Khordha, Puri, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, and Jharsuguda.

These regions may experience lightning, heavy showers, and wind speeds ranging between 30 to 40 kmph.

Also read: Schools To Remain Closed In Four Districts

Officials have cautioned residents to remain alert as unstable weather conditions persist. While rainfall intensity is expected to reduce briefly, fresh spells of heavy rain are forecast from August 2, continuing until August 4.

The state has already recorded over 700 mm of monsoon rainfall this season, surpassing the average due to strong July showers following a relatively dry June.

The influence of a low-pressure system has triggered continuous rainfall, raising water levels in several rivers. Authorities are closely monitoring flood-like situations in vulnerable areas.

In view of safety concerns, district administrations have announced the closure of schools in Bhadrak, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, and Jajpur on Thursday. All government, private schools, and Anganwadi centres in these districts will remain shut, as per directives issued by respective district collectors.

The prolonged rainfall has disrupted daily life, with reports of floods and waterlogging in low-lying regions and rising river levels prompting precautionary measures.

Officials have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors during thunderstorms. Despite crop loss due to floods and incessant rain, farmers are expected to benefit from the abundant rainfall, which will boost soil moisture and improved crop prospects in coming months.

With the monsoon showing no signs of retreat, Odisha continues to remain on high alert.