Rainfall activity is set to intensify across Odisha as a fresh low-pressure area is likely to develop over the northwest Bay of Bengal on Saturday, August 29, under the influence of a cyclonic circulation.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Bhubaneswar, has issued an orange warning for six districts, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall. A yellow warning has also been issued for 24 districts as several parts of the state may experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning.
The weather system is expected to bring an increase in rainfall activity from August 30, with many areas likely to witness thunderstorms over the next four days.
Six districts under orange warning
According to RMC Director Manorama Mohanty, several districts are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall as the weather system develops.
Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur are among the districts expected to experience intense rainfall.
“Various places across the state are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall. Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur districts are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall,” Mohanty said.
The forecast comes amid heightened monsoon activity over Odisha and adjoining areas of the Bay of Bengal.
Heavy rain forecast in several other districts
Apart from the districts under the orange warning, heavy rainfall is also likely at some places in Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Jajpur, Angul, Dhenkanal, Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Bargarh, Nuapada, Bolangir, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Boudh and Sonepur.
Several areas may also experience thunderstorms and lightning during the period.
With the low-pressure area expected to become more influential from Sunday, rainfall activity could increase further across different parts of the state.
Residents advised to remain cautious
Authorities have urged people, particularly those living in districts under the orange warning, to remain alert and take necessary precautions.
Residents have also been advised to exercise caution during thunderstorms and lightning and stay updated with official weather advisories.
The developing system over the Bay of Bengal is expected to keep Odisha’s weather unsettled over the coming days, with periods of heavy rainfall likely in several districts.
