Heavy Rain Triggers Flood Concerns in North Odisha; Schools Shut in Mayurbhanj

Heavy rainfall continues to lash Odisha, with several districts in northern parts of the state witnessing waterlogging and flood-like conditions. In view of the situation, the Mayurbhanj district administration has declared a one-day holiday for schools and colleges across the district on Friday.

The holiday has been announced as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students. All government, government-aided and private schools from the primary to higher secondary levels will remain closed. All Block Education Officers (BEOs) in the district have been informed about the decision.

The Baripada town area and several other parts of Mayurbhanj have been affected by the continuing rain.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Bhubaneswar, has warned of flash floods and low visibility in northern Odisha due to intense rainfall. IMD Bhubaneswar Director Dr Manorama Mohanty has advised people to remain alert and exercise caution.

An Orange Warning has been issued for Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Angul, Dhenkanal, Bhadrak and Jajpur districts for heavy to very heavy rainfall. Red Warnings have also been issued for Keonjhar, Sundargarh and Mayurbhanj.

Meanwhile, strong winds are expected along the Odisha coast on August 13 and 14. Wind speeds may reach 45-55 kmph and gust up to 65 kmph. The sea is likely to remain rough, prompting authorities to advise fishermen against venturing into the sea during these two days.

Water Resources Department Chief Engineer Dilip Rout said authorities need to remain particularly alert regarding the Jalaka, Salandi and Baitarani rivers. Heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas has affected water discharge and may lead to continued waterlogging in several locations.

Areas including Tihidi, Chandbali, Balasore Sadar, Basta and Dasarathpur are likely to continue facing waterlogging. However, a major flood situation is not expected at present, he said.

According to available rainfall data, more than 100 mm of rain has been recorded at 17 locations. No major flood has been reported in the Budhabalanga, Brahmani, Subarnarekha, Baitarani or Mahanadi rivers so far.

The Hirakud reservoir water level has fallen to around 614 feet. Four gates were closed in the morning, while two gates remain open.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as heavy rainfall continues across northern Odisha, particularly in the wake of the prevailing low-pressure system.