The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced that conditions are favourable for the southwest monsoon’s withdrawal, set to commence from parts of West Rajasthan starting September 15. However, Odisha is currently experiencing heavy rainfall due to an active low-pressure area over southern Odisha and northern Andhra Pradesh, which is expected to move northwest towards southern Chhattisgarh within the next two days.
This weather system has triggered intense rainfall across the state, with extremely heavy downpours recorded in Ganjam, Nayagarh, and Khordha districts over the past 24 hours.
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre, Bhapur in Nayagarh district recorded the highest rainfall at 7.32 cm, followed by Berhampur in Ganjam district with 6.54 cm. The active low-pressure system has caused significant rainfall in southern Odisha, with two locations reporting extremely heavy showers. The Regional Meteorological Centre stated that Odisha will experience thunderstorms and rainfall until September 17.
A yellow warning for heavy rainfall has been issued for districts including Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, and Sundargarh, while a general alert for thunderstorms and rain has been issued for the remaining 24 districts. The rainfall intensity is expected to decrease from Tuesday, with no heavy rainfall warnings issued thereafter.
Meanwhile, the IMD has issued a cyclone advisory for Odisha and eastern India, highlighting October to December as the peak cyclone season. The potential development of La Niña conditions by late September could increase cyclone activity, particularly affecting Odisha’s coastal regions.
According to IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, La Niña, expected to strengthen by October, may lead to severe cyclonic activity, with a 71% probability as per NOAA and 60% as per WMO. This could also result in harsher winters in Odisha.
The IMD has advised local administrations to remain vigilant, noting that cyclone forecasts can be made 15 days in advance.
