Even as Odisha waits to embrace the gentle onset of winter, weather experts warn of continued rainfall due to a series of low-pressure systems forming over the Bay of Bengal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that despite the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon, the state will continue to witness intermittent rain, particularly over coastal and southern districts, till October 25.
A well-marked low-pressure area has already formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal, which is expected to move northwestwards and intensify into a depression near the Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh coasts by Wednesday. While no cyclone warnings have been issued yet, IMD officials said they are closely monitoring the system’s development.
Series of Weather Systems on the Horizon
Noted meteorologist Dr. Sarat Sahu has indicated that another low-pressure system is likely to form between October 26 and 27, followed by a third system around October 29–30.
While the first may not intensify significantly, the latter is expected to strengthen more prominently, possibly impacting southern Odisha districts with heavier rainfall.
“The sequence of these systems could stretch the wet spell well into the end of October,” Dr. Sahu observed, adding that this chain of disturbances will delay the cooling effect normally expected during this time of the year.
Experts Predict Complex Weather Interactions
Weather analyst Dr. Surendranath Pasupalak, who studies international climate models, believes the current low-pressure system may merge with the upcoming one, resulting in a larger, unified weather pattern.
According to him, cold northerly winds, which usually mark the start of Odisha’s winter, are currently unable to enter the state due to unfavourable sea conditions and persistent humidity over the region.
“This combination of systems could delay the arrival of winter by several weeks,” Dr. Pasupalak said, noting that the state might continue to experience mild temperatures and cloudy skies through the end of October.
Impact on Crops and Agriculture
The continuous rainfall could pose challenges for farmers, especially those in the middle of paddy harvesting.
Agriculture experts have warned that excess moisture in the air may lead to pest infestations and crop diseases, particularly in low-lying and coastal districts.
Farmers have been advised to consult local agricultural officers for timely pest control measures and ensure proper drainage in paddy fields to minimize damage.
Winter Takes a Backseat for Now
With multiple low-pressure systems forming one after another and warm sea surface temperatures sustaining humidity, the long-awaited winter chill may arrive later than usual this year.
For now, Odisha’s skies will remain cloudy and moist, with light to moderate rains over several districts, delaying the seasonal shift from monsoon to winter that typically brings relief to both residents and farmers.