The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast another spell of heavy rainfall across Odisha over the next several days, with rain intensity expected to increase from Tuesday. Several districts have been placed on alert for heavy rain, thunderstorms and lightning, while authorities have been asked to remain prepared for any flood-related situation.

According to the weather department, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh and Angul are likely to receive heavy rainfall over the next 24 hours. Thunderstorm and lightning warnings have also been issued for Rayagada, Gajapati, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj and Sundargarh districts.

The IMD has predicted that heavy rainfall may continue across Odisha till August 8, particularly over North Odisha, Interior Odisha and South Odisha. In view of the forecast, the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) has directed all district collectors and government departments to remain on high alert and ensure advance preparedness.

Cyclonic Circulation May Form Over Bay

Weather officials have indicated the possibility of a cyclonic circulation forming over the Bay of Bengal around August 7, which could further intensify rainfall on August 8 and 9.

The IMD has also forecast widespread heavy rainfall over neighbouring Chhattisgarh between August 4 and August 8. Heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas could lead to a fresh rise in the Mahanadi river and its tributaries, prompting authorities to closely monitor river levels and prepare for any potential flood situation.

On Tuesday, heavy rainfall is expected in Bargarh, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Kandhamal, Nabarangpur, Rayagada and Koraput districts. From August 5 to August 8, heavy rain is likely at isolated places across both North and South Odisha.

Rainfall Above Normal This Monsoon

The IMD said Odisha has received 30 per cent excess rainfall between June 1 and August 2 compared to the seasonal average.

During the past 24 hours, Deogarh recorded the highest rainfall at 44.2 mm, followed by Talcher (20 mm) and Sambalpur (12 mm).

The weather department said very heavy rainfall has been recorded this monsoon in Bargarh, Subarnapur, Balangir, Boudh, Dhenkanal, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur and Puri, while Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, Ganjam, Rayagada, Kalahandi and Koraput have also witnessed heavy rainfall. Only Gajapati, Nabarangpur and Malkangiri continue to report below-normal rainfall.

Flood Situation Continues in Chandbali

Even as rainfall has eased in several places, floodwaters from the upper catchments continue to affect low-lying areas.

In Bhadrak district’s Chandbali block, floodwaters continue to inundate 15 gram panchayats, including Aradi, Sundarpur, Nandapur, Olag, Tentulidihi, Madhapur, Ghatpur and Kheranga.

Although water levels on village roads have started to recede slightly, normal life remains disrupted. Agricultural fields have been severely affected, with nearly 70 per cent of transplanted paddy fields remaining submerged, raising concerns over significant crop losses and the livelihoods of farming communities.

Authorities are closely monitoring the evolving weather situation and have urged residents in vulnerable areas to stay alert and follow official advisories as heavy rainfall is expected to continue over the coming days.