Odisha Fishermen Warned of Potential Low-Pressure System

Odisha's Special Relief Commissioner advised fishermen to avoid the sea on August 16 and 17 due to a potential low-pressure formation in the Bay of Bengal. The India Meteorological Department forecasts gusty winds and heavy rains in several districts, alerting local authorities and fishermen to take precautionary measures.

In an alert issued on Thursday, Odisha's Special Relief Commissioner advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea on August 16 and 17, citing a potential low-pressure formation in the Bay of Bengal. This advisory has been communicated to the principal secretary and the director of the fisheries and animal resources development department, as well as district collectors in Ganjam, Puri, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Bhadrak, and Balasore.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) noted that a cyclonic circulation over South Bangladesh and adjacent Gangetic West Bengal could lead to the formation of a low-pressure area in the next 24 hours. Strong monsoon currents may result in gusty winds reaching 40 to 50 kmph over the North West Bay of Bengal on Friday and Saturday, the IMD added. Fishermen are advised to return to the coast.

Additionally, the IMD forecasts heavy rain and thunderstorms in multiple districts including Bhadrak, Balasore, Jajpur, Kendrapara, and Jagatsinghpur. Heavy rainfall is expected on August 16 in districts like Balasore and Bhadrak, with continued precipitation in regions such as Mayurbhanj and Sundargarh over the next 24 hours.

(With inputs from agencies.)