A low-pressure area has formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal off the north Odisha–West Bengal coast, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to forecast widespread rainfall across Odisha over the next 48 hours.
According to the IMD, the weather system developed at 5:30 am IST on Wednesday, July 15, under the influence of an upper air cyclonic circulation that persisted over the region a day earlier.
Low-pressure system to move across Odisha
Meteorologists said the low-pressure area is likely to move west-northwestwards across north Odisha and Gangetic West Bengal during the next two days, enhancing monsoon activity across eastern India.
The system is expected to bring light to moderate rainfall across most parts of Odisha, with heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated locations, particularly in northern, coastal and interior districts. Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds are also likely in some areas.
Heavy rain continues to affect several districts
The latest weather development comes after several parts of Odisha experienced continuous rainfall over the past two days, causing waterlogging in low-lying areas and disrupting normal life.
In Bhadrak district, schools were closed as a precaution after persistent rain led to inundation in several areas.
Authorities on alert
With the weather system expected to move inland, the IMD is closely monitoring its intensity and trajectory. Rainfall activity is expected to continue across Odisha before gradually weakening as the system advances further inland.
The weather agency is expected to issue district-wise forecasts and warnings based on the movement of the low-pressure area.
Authorities have advised people living in low-lying, flood-prone and riverbank areas to remain vigilant and follow official weather advisories.
Disaster management teams and district administrations have also been placed on alert to respond to any rain-related emergencies, including urban flooding, waterlogging and transport disruptions.
Monsoon likely to intensify
The low-pressure area is expected to strengthen the southwest monsoon over Odisha. However, it also increases the risk of flash floods, heavy rainfall and temporary disruption to daily life over the next 48 hours.
Residents have been urged to monitor official IMD updates and exercise caution while travelling during periods of intense rainfall.
