Odisha Braces for Heavy Rainfall: IMD Issues Forecast

Odisha will experience prolonged rainfall over the next four days due to a low pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, according to the IMD. Heavy rainfall is expected in multiple districts, with fishermen advised against going to sea. Emergency response measures are being prepared by the state government.

Odisha is set to face prolonged rainfall over the next four days due to a low pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, as stated by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday.

One low pressure area has formed, and another is likely on July 19, the IMD said. Heavy to very heavy rainfall, ranging from 7 to 20 cm, is expected in Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, and Rayagada on July 15. Areas like Nuapada, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Ganjam, Gajapati, and Balangir may also see heavy rainfall of 7 to 11 cm, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.

Although no specific weather warnings are issued for July 16, heavy rains may resume on July 17 in several places, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Nayagarh, Malkangiri, and Koraput. Another low-pressure area is expected to form around July 19 in the west-central and northwest Bay of Bengal.

The IMD has issued warnings for July 19, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall in Koraput and Malkangiri, with heavy rains likely in Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, and Kandhamal districts. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea off the south Odisha coast and northwest adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal from July 15 to 16 due to squally weather and gusty winds reaching 40 to 50 kmph.

Meanwhile, Odisha's Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) has instructed district collectors to keep emergency response measures ready and to report any incidents of heavy to very heavy rainfall promptly to the state government.

(With inputs from agencies.)