Odisha may see another spell of heavy rainfall as a fresh low-pressure system is likely to develop over the Bay of Bengal even before the impact of the existing system completely subsides.
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre, a new upper-air cyclonic circulation is likely to form over the north Bay of Bengal by August 19. Under its influence, a low-pressure area may develop over the northwest Bay of Bengal around August 20, raising concerns over another round of rainfall across Odisha.
Meanwhile, the existing low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a depression, triggering heavy rainfall across several parts of the state.
Orange Warning for Four Districts
For today, the weather department has issued an Orange Warning for Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur and Bargarh districts, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall.
A Yellow Warning has been issued for Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Deogarh, Angul, Subarnapur, Boudh, Balangir and Nuapada. Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds of 30-40 kmph are likely in these areas.
Rainfall is expected to continue across Odisha until August 17, with isolated heavy rainfall likely at one or two places.
Rough Sea Along Odisha Coast
Coastal Odisha is likely to experience cloudy weather and rain, accompanied by winds of 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph. The sea is expected to remain rough, prompting authorities to advise fishermen against venturing into the sea.
IMD Bhubaneswar Director Dr Manorama Mohanty has warned of flash-flood risks and reduced visibility in northern Odisha due to heavy rainfall. She urged people to remain alert and exercise caution.
Waterlogging Concerns in Northern Odisha
Water Resources Department Chief Engineer Dilip Rout has advised people to remain cautious around the Jalaka, Salandi and Baitarani rivers.
Heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas has affected water discharge. Although a major flood situation is not expected at present, waterlogging may continue in several areas, including Tihidi, Chandbali, Balasore Sadar, Basta and Dasarathpur.
100 mm Plus Rainfall at 17 Locations
According to the available data, more than 100 mm of rainfall has been recorded at 17 locations across the state.
No major flood situation 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.
With heavy rainfall continuing in northern Odisha and another low-pressure system potentially developing around August 20, authorities are closely monitoring the situation.