Wet Spell to Continue in Odisha After Soaked June

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted above-normal rainfall over most parts of India, including Odisha, for the coming week. This prediction follows an already rain-heavy June for the state and raises concerns about potential flooding across river basins, particularly in central India and the southern peninsula.

During a virtual press briefing held on June 30, 2025, IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra highlighted the increasing likelihood of flooding in major river systems such as the Mahanadi, Godavari, and Krishna.

Upper Mahanadi at High Risk of Heavy Rain

Mohapatra warned of an elevated chance of intense rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the Mahanadi river, which flows through Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh before entering Odisha. “We need to monitor these regions closely,” he said, noting that other rivers in the area may also breach their banks under the pressure of sustained rainfall.

This persistent monsoon activity is attributed to neutral sea surface temperatures related to the El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to help sustain an active monsoon through the season.

Deficient Monsoon Likely in Northeast and East India

While central and southern India are expected to receive ample rainfall, the northeast and eastern parts of the country—including states like Bihar, West Bengal, and Sikkim—are likely to experience a weaker monsoon. This regional imbalance could affect agriculture and water availability in those areas.

Additionally, maximum temperatures are projected to stay above normal in the northeast, northwest, and southern peninsular regions. However, minimum temperatures are expected to be near to below normal across most of the country, except in the western Himalayas and parts of the south, where slightly warmer nights may be observed.

Odisha on High Alert Amid Flood Threat

In anticipation of the forecasted deluge, Odisha’s state authorities have issued red alerts in flood-prone districts such as Balasore and Mayurbhanj. Rising water levels in several rivers have prompted the government and disaster management teams to prepare for emergency responses.

The IMD has also urged citizens to remain vigilant, especially in urban areas susceptible to waterlogging and flooding. Particular attention has been drawn to rivers and water bodies like Dal and Nigeen, where the risk of overflow remains high.

Call to Action for Farmers and Emergency Teams

With the IMD’s warning sounding alarm bells across the state, Odisha’s farmers and disaster response teams are being mobilized to mitigate the potential impact of floods. Disaster preparedness and quick mobilization of resources are now crucial to protect life, agriculture, and infrastructure from the adverse effects of the heavy rainfall expected in the coming days.

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