Odisha Braces for Heavy Rains Amidst Low-Pressure Development

Odisha is forecasted to experience heavy rainfall over the next four days due to a low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal. Alerts have been issued for several districts, and fisherfolk are advised to avoid deep sea ventures. Authorities prepare for potential flooding and embankment breaches.

Heavy rains are forecasted in Odisha over the next four days due to the formation of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, as reported by the weather office.

The low-pressure system, currently over the central and adjoining north Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify and move northwestwards towards the Odisha coast, explained Regional Met Centre director Manorama Mohanty to PTI-Video.

According to Mohanty, this development will result in heavy to very heavy rainfall in many parts of Odisha in the coming days. The weather office has issued alerts for districts including Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati, Ganjam, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, and Kalahandi.

Fisherfolk have been advised to avoid venturing into the deep sea from July 19 to 22.

Since June 1, Odisha has recorded a cumulative rainfall of 288.3 mm against a normal of 394.1 mm. While 13 districts received normal rainfall, 17 districts remain deficient, as per the weather office's data.

In light of the forecast, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Satyabrata Sahu has directed district collectors to prepare for any emergencies. Engineers have been instructed to monitor embankments closely, particularly vulnerable sections of rivers and canals.

"Flood-fighting materials should be positioned strategically and immediate actions should be taken to prevent or address breaches and damage to roads," advised the SRC.

(With inputs from agencies.)