The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe weather alert for Odisha as the southwest monsoon intensifies, accompanied by a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal. The resulting heavy rains are expected to continue until June 24, significantly disrupting daily life across several districts.

Orange Alert for Four Districts

On Thursday, the IMD issued orange warnings for Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Sundargarh, and Keonjhar. These areas are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the range of 7 to 20 cm. The forecast has raised concerns about localized flooding and transportation disruptions.

Other districts, including Deogarh, Angul, Mayurbhanj, and Bargarh, are predicted to receive light to moderate rain, while light rainfall has been reported in many other parts of the state and neighboring Jharkhand, influenced by the movement of a low-pressure area originating from Gangetic West Bengal.

Thunderstorms and Cloud Activity Intensify

According to the IMD, convective clouds and thunderstorm activity have intensified over Odisha. Satellite imagery has confirmed the presence of active weather systems in the region. As a precautionary measure, fishermen have been advised not to venture into the northern Bay of Bengal until Friday due to strong winds reaching speeds of up to 55 km/h.

Flash Floods and Landslide Risk Looming

Manorama Mohanty, Director of IMD Bhubaneswar, warned that the ongoing rainfall could lead to landslides and crop damage, especially in hilly and riverine areas. She urged residents in vulnerable zones to remain alert and prepare for possible evacuations.

Odisha has witnessed record rainfall levels this week, with 287.1 mm reported—far exceeding the average of 52.1 mm for this time of year. This dramatic increase has sparked fears of flash floods, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone regions.

Urban Areas Struggle with Waterlogging

In urban centers like Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, continuous downpours have led to severe waterlogging and traffic slowdowns. City authorities are working to clear clogged drains and flooded roads, while disaster response teams have been deployed to sensitive locations to aid residents and maintain safety.

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