Deep Depression Crosses Odisha Coast, Flash Floods Reported

A deep depression crossed the Odisha coast near Puri, as reported by the IMD. A red alert was issued in five districts with warnings of heavy rainfall. Flash floods were reported in Malkangiri and Koraput, leading to evacuations and roadblocks. Relief efforts are deployed across affected areas.

A deep depression crossed the Odisha coast near Puri on Monday, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Manorama Mohanty, director of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, stated that the landfall occurred between 10:30 am and 11:30 am with wind speeds of 55-65 km/hour. The system is expected to weaken into a depression by midnight on September 9.

The IMD issued a red alert for five districts, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall. The affected districts include Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Khurda, Cuttack, and Dhenkanal. Fishermen have been strongly advised against venturing into the sea until September 11. Several other districts including Ganjam, Koraput, and Kandhamal are also expected to experience heavy rainfall.

Reports of flash floods have emerged from Malkangiri and Koraput districts, resulting in evacuations and road blockages. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has directed district collectors to remain vigilant and evacuate residents from low-lying areas. Relief operations are underway with 18 teams of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force and six teams from the National Disaster Response Force deployed in various districts.

(With inputs from agencies.)