A low-pressure area formed over the northwestern Bay of Bengal adjoining the West Bengal–north Odisha coast early Saturday morning, leading to a five-day heavy to very heavy rainfall warning across the state.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system developed around 5:30 a.m. under the influence of an active cyclonic circulation. Rainfall intensity is expected to increase further on Sunday, with Mayurbhanj district placed under a red alert for extremely heavy rain.
An orange warning has been issued for Bhadrak, Baleshwar, Kendujhar, Jajpur, Dhenkanal, Anugola, Debagada, and Sundargarh, while yellow warnings cover Puri, Khordha, Nayagada, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapada, Kataka, Boudhagada, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Sonepur, Baragada, Kandhamala, Kalahandi, Balangir, and Nuapada districts.
The IMD forecast indicates that the state will experience widespread rainfall till September 2, accompanied by strong winds of 40–60 kmph along the Odisha coast, making sea conditions rough. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea till August 31.
Six locations have already recorded heavy rainfall, with Khaira in Baleshwar receiving the highest at 96 mm. Since June 1, Odisha has recorded 1,111.4 mm of rainfall, which is 26% above normal (average 884.2 mm).
Authorities have urged residents to remain alert, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas, as the system continues to intensify.
