Heavy rains lash Odisha, red warning issued for 5 districts

Odisha: The weather has deteriorated once again. A low-pressure area in the northwestern Bay of Bengal strengthened further on Friday, leading to heavy and continuous rainfall across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red warning for five districts in Odisha, where extremely heavy rainfall is expected.

According to the IMD, this low-pressure area is clearly active in the northwest and adjoining areas of the Bay of Bengal. A cyclonic circulation has also developed, extending up to an altitude of approximately 9.4 kilometers above sea level. This situation is creating excessive moisture and instability in the atmosphere, creating favorable conditions for heavy rainfall in the state.

Weather experts say that the strengthening of this system has led to continuous rainfall in both coastal and interior areas. Many districts remained overcast since morning, and intermittent heavy rain continued throughout the day. Waterlogging has also developed in low-lying areas, causing difficulties for local residents in commuting.

Administrations in districts where a red warning has been issued have been put on alert, and disaster management teams have been fully activated. District administrations have been instructed to be prepared to deal with any emergency and make arrangements to evacuate people to safer locations, if necessary.

The IMD has warned that the next 24 to 48 hours will be crucial for Odisha. During this period, very heavy rainfall is expected in some areas, which could cause river levels to rise and flooding in low-lying areas.

According to the Meteorological Department, this system is likely to gradually move west-northwest, potentially affecting the interior of the state. Sea conditions are also expected to remain rough in coastal districts, where strong winds and high waves could create dangerous conditions.

The administration has appealed to people not to leave their homes unnecessarily and to follow the warnings issued by the Meteorological Department. People living along river banks and in low-lying areas have been especially advised to remain vigilant.

Agricultural experts say that such heavy rains could also impact paddy and other Kharif crops. While this rain may prove beneficial in some areas, excessive rainfall also poses a risk of crop damage.

The Disaster Management Department has activated the control room 24 hours a day and relief and rescue teams have been placed on standby. Teams have been deployed in various districts to provide immediate assistance in case of any emergency.

Local administrations have also instructed to monitor power supply and traffic arrangements to ensure no major disruptions occur during the heavy rains. As a precautionary measure, schools and other institutions are also being considered for a holiday in many areas.

Overall, this low-pressure system formed in the Bay of Bengal has now fully activated, severely affecting the weather in Odisha. With a red alert issued for five districts, the administration and the Meteorological Department are closely monitoring the situation and urging people to exercise caution.