Heavy Rainfall to Continue Across Odisha Under Low-Pressure Influence

Rainfall continues across Odisha, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting more rain in several parts of the state over the next 24 hours due to the influence of a low-pressure system.

According to the Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, the low-pressure area and associated cyclonic circulation currently active over south Chhattisgarh and adjoining areas are likely to trigger rainfall across Odisha until September 17.

The weather department has issued a Yellow Warning for seven districts—Nabarangpur, Koraput, Kalahandi, Malkangiri, Balangir, Nuapada and Bargarh—forecasting heavy rainfall in these areas.

Regional Meteorological Centre Director Manorama Mohanty said that the remaining districts may also experience thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kmph.

Malkangiri’s Chitrakonda recorded the highest rainfall in the state during the last 24 hours, receiving 192 mm of rain.

Odisha has recorded 1,255.4 mm of rainfall since June 1, which is around 22 per cent above the normal rainfall for the period. With the weather system remaining active, more rainfall is expected in the coming days.

Flood Situation Worsens in Malkangiri

The situation in Malkangiri district has turned serious following nearly 48 hours of continuous rainfall. Floodwater is flowing over several low-lying bridges across the district, disrupting road communication in several areas.

The situation has particularly affected the Poteru area, where floodwater has once again started flowing over a low-level bridge on National Highway 326.

Around one foot of water was reported flowing over the bridge, disrupting vehicular movement and briefly cutting off communication along the route. Although the water level receded around midnight and connectivity was restored, the subsequent rise in water levels has again affected traffic over the Poteru bridge.

With more rainfall forecast under the influence of the low-pressure system, authorities and residents in vulnerable areas are keeping a close watch on the situation.