The 2026 southwest monsoon has concluded with stark regional contrasts across India. While the nation overall experienced a 13% shortfall in seasonal precipitation, Odisha defied the trend by recording 29% excess rainfall, according to data released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Nationally, total rainfall reached 759.4 mm against the normal benchmark of 868.6 mm—placing the overall national trend in the deficient-to-normal category. Western and southern states including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu bore the brunt of the shortfall.
In sharp contrast, Odisha logged a total seasonal rainfall of 1,482.3 mm, significantly above its normal average of 1,150.2 mm.
District Breakdown: Baleshwar Leads, Boudh Sees Highest Surge
Precipitation varied widely across Odisha’s districts, with northern and central belts receiving the heaviest downpours:
- Baleshwar: Highest overall rainfall in the state at 1,907.1 mm (56% above normal).
- Boudh: Saw the highest percentage departure, registering 70% above normal precipitation (1,769.3 mm).
- Mayurbhanj, Kenduhar, & Baragada: Recorded heavy rainfall measuring 1,862.6 mm, 1,765 mm, and 1,705.2 mm respectively.
- Gajapati: Recorded the lowest rainfall in the state at 896.7 mm (1% below normal).
Along with Jammu & Kashmir, Odisha registered among the highest surplus rainfall totals nationwide this season.
Relief Operations Underway; Yellow Alert Issued for Coastal & Northern Districts
The heavy spell triggered localized flooding in several districts, prompting large-scale evacuation and relief measures. Rescue teams have shifted thousands of displaced residents to temporary shelter camps. Authorities continue to advise the public to avoid waterlogged roads and monitor official weather advisories closely.
As the monsoon retreats, rainfall activity across the state has begun to ease. However, Dr. Rajasree VPM, scientist at the Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, noted that a well-marked low-pressure area active over northern Myanmar and adjoining Bangladesh-Mizoram will influence local weather over the next 24 to 48 hours.
A Yellow Warning for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 30–40 km/h has been issued for the following districts:
- Baleshwar
- Bhadrak
- Kendrapada
- Jajpur
- Jagatsinghpur
- Kataka
- Sundaragada
- Kendujhar
- Mayurbhanj
Weather conditions across Odisha are expected to stabilize after October 2, ushering in dry and sunny weather for the remainder of the week.
