IMD Issues Orange Alert for Heavy Rains in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh

A well-marked low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression, set to cross north Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha coasts around midnight. The IMD has issued an orange alert for heavy rains up to 20 cm with thunderstorms for several districts in Odisha until Sunday morning.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that a well-marked low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression. This system is expected to make landfall around midnight between north Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha coasts.

According to the IMD, the depression is likely to cross the region between Vishakhapatnam and Gopalpur, near Kalingapatnam. An 'orange' alert for heavy to very heavy rain, ranging from 7 cm to 20 cm, accompanied by thunderstorms, has been issued until 8.30 am on Sunday.

Districts like Malkangiri, Koraput, and Nabarangpur are particularly warned. Additionally, the IMD predicts heavy rain and thunderstorms in Nuapada, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Ganjam, and Gajapati districts. Squally winds reaching speeds of 45-55 kmph and gusting to 65 kmph are expected along and off the Odisha coast. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until September 1 as the Bay of Bengal is forecasted to be very rough.

Special Relief Commissioner Deoranjan Kumar Singh has urged all districts to prepare for any eventuality.

(With inputs from agencies.)