Odisha could see another spell of rain during the upcoming festive season as a fresh low-pressure system is likely to develop over the Andaman Sea in the second week of October.
According to the weather outlook, a cyclonic circulation may form over the Andaman Sea around October 12, which could intensify into a low-pressure area by October 13. The system may subsequently move towards the south-central or adjoining central Bay of Bengal around October 15, with a possibility of developing into a weak depression.
Weather expert Surendra Nath Pashupalak has indicated that the system could influence weather conditions over Odisha during the Durga Puja period, potentially bringing rainfall to parts of the state.
Puja Committees Prepare for Possible Rain
The possibility of rain during Durga Puja has become a concern for puja committees, with preparations already underway across the state.
Committees are making arrangements to protect idols and ensure the safety and convenience of devotees in case of rainfall. At Rasulgarh, where a puja is being organised beneath the bridge, arrangements have reportedly been made to provide shelter to devotees during rain.
Temporary stalls have also been set up around the puja venue, which can be used by visitors for shelter if rainfall occurs.
Odisha Experiencing Hot Weather
Meanwhile, Odisha is currently experiencing hot and dry conditions following the heavy rainfall and flooding triggered by the recent deep depression.
Nayagarh recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 36°C during the past 24 hours. Bhubaneswar recorded 35.5°C, while Cuttack registered 34.8°C. Phulbani recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 20°C.
For the next three days, no rainfall or other significant weather warning has been issued for any district of Odisha, and dry weather is expected to prevail.
Daytime temperatures are likely to remain high and may rise by another 1°C to 2°C in the coming days.
The evolving low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal will be closely watched as its strength, movement and potential impact on Odisha become clearer closer to mid-October.