Odisha has recorded 15% more rainfall than normal so far in the ongoing Kharif season, according to data shared by the state Agriculture Department. The update came after a Crop Weather Watch Group meeting where seasonal progress and rainfall data were discussed.
While the expected rainfall for the period was 515 mm, the actual recorded amount stands at 591.8 mm. This surplus has supported active crop sowing across the state.
Sowing Progress Surpasses Previous Year
Of the targeted 58.5 lakh hectares for crop plantation this Kharif season, 26.75 lakh hectares have already been sown—higher than the area covered during the same period last year. The department reported that overall crop conditions across the state remain normal.
Flood Threatens Crops in Northern Odisha
Despite the positive rainfall trend, flood-like conditions in parts of Balasore, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj districts have raised concerns. Overflowing rivers—Jalaka, Baitarani, and Subarnarekha—have caused waterlogging and pose a threat to standing crops in low-lying areas.
Crop Damage Assessment in Progress
Officials have been instructed to conduct field-level damage assessments in the flood-affected regions. These reports will be submitted to the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) through the respective district collectors for further evaluation.
