Heavy rainfall continues across Odisha, particularly in the northern districts, causing rivers to swell and disrupting normal life. Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur and Keonjhar are among the worst-affected districts, with several areas witnessing flood-like conditions.
In Keonjhar, the water level of the Baitarani River has risen at Bhimkund. Traffic movement has also been affected at Jodiya Ghat after rocks fell from the hills. In Jajpur’s Dasarathpur block, the embankment of the Kani River in Tarpada panchayat suffered damage. Administrative teams are carrying out repairs on a war footing.
The Regional Meteorological Centre has issued warnings for heavy rainfall and possible flooding in several parts of the state.
In Bhadrak district, the Baitarani and Salandi rivers are flowing above the danger level near Akhuapada. Several areas of Bhandaripokhari and Dhamnagar blocks have been inundated. Water flowing over roads has disrupted connectivity to the famous Akhandalamani Temple. Despite the risks, devotees and locals have been seen moving through strong currents during the ongoing Shravan Monday.
In Balasore’s Basta area, the water level of the Jalka River is gradually receding, but the situation remains difficult. Around 100 houses in Basichukurai panchayat are still waterlogged, leaving residents unable to cook. Large areas of farmland have also been damaged.
The Panchalingeswar shrine has been closed after heavy water flow from Devagiri hills. Four priests and staff members are reportedly stranded there.
In Kendrapara district, floodwaters surrounded an Ashram School in Penthapala panchayat. Fire personnel rescued around 300 students who were stranded inside the hostel.
Floods have also affected western and central Odisha. In Sundargarh’s Bonai block, 17 families from Ghatposh village have been surrounded by water from the Rukuda Dam and are taking shelter on the road.
Meanwhile, more than 60 cattle stranded on an island in the Brahmani River in Kamakhyanagar, Dhenkanal district, were rescued.
Rescue and relief operations are continuing across the state as authorities closely monitor the flood situation and rising river levels.