The Bay of Bengal has developed a well-marked low-pressure area that is expected to intensify into a deep depression, triggering heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several parts of Odisha.
Grounding fears of severe weather, India Meteorological Department (IMD) Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra and the Chief Secretary of Odisha have issued safety alerts and directed local administrations to prepare for potential flooding.
According to IMD DG Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the system will not take the shape of a cyclone, but its deep depression form will bring intense rain and high-speed winds.
Key Highlights from the IMD & State Advisory
-
Timeline of Impact: Rainfall is set to begin on the evening of the 22nd, with peak intensity on 23rd and 24th. By the 25th, the rainfall belt will shift toward interior Odisha.
-
Wind Speeds: Squally weather with wind speeds reaching 55 to 65 km/h is expected starting from the evening of the 22nd.
-
Worst-Affected Areas: Districts located south of Puri and coastal regions are expected to bear the maximum brunt. A total of 11 districts have been put on high alert.
-
Extreme Rainfall: Certain regions could experience localised rainfall measuring up to 20 cm, heightening the risk of urban flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas.
-
River and Reservoir Management: With river water levels expected to rise, orders have been issued to reduce water levels in key reservoirs like Indravati and Telengiri. Meanwhile, water storage in the Balimela and Kolab dams remains within safe control limits.
District Collectors across coastal and southern Odisha have been instructed to stay vigilant, maintain emergency responses, and take necessary measures to protect lives and infrastructure.
