The Ganjam district administration has stepped up preparedness measures in view of the possible impact of Cyclone Arnab. All officials’ leave has been cancelled until October 29, and those currently on leave have been directed to report to their respective headquarters by Sunday morning.

Ganjam Collector V. Keerthi Vasan said the district administration was taking precautionary measures to deal with possible flooding, a cyclone and heavy rainfall.

A district-level preparedness meeting was held on Saturday morning under the Collector’s chairmanship. Senior officials, Block Development Officers (BDOs), tehsildars and departmental officers attended the meeting to review the arrangements.

According to the district administration, rainfall may begin on the evening of October 26 and continue in several parts of the district until October 29. Officials have been instructed not to leave their headquarters without prior permission during this period.

110 Permanent Shelters and Over 1,000 Temporary Shelters Ready

The administration has made arrangements to address possible waterlogging and flooding in vulnerable areas.

Water levels in dams and drainage arrangements will be monitored continuously to prevent waterlogging. Following flooding in Berhampur and several other areas during heavy rainfall last month, officials have been directed to identify vulnerable locations and clear drains and water outlets to ensure the smooth flow of rainwater.

The district has prepared 110 permanent cyclone and flood shelters along with more than 1,000 temporary shelters. These facilities can accommodate approximately 1.5 lakh people at a time.

Officials have been instructed to ensure the availability of food, drinking water, medical services, electricity and communication facilities at all designated shelters.

Nine ODRAF and Two NDRF Teams Kept Ready

The district administration has kept nine Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams and two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams ready for rescue and relief operations.

A 24-hour control room has also become operational from Saturday to coordinate emergency response and monitor the evolving weather situation.

These measures are aimed at ensuring a swift response in the event of heavy rainfall, flooding or other cyclone-related emergencies.

Fishermen Advised Not to Venture Into the Sea

As a precautionary measure, fishermen have been prohibited from venturing into the sea until October 30.

The administration has also directed shopkeepers to display price lists to prevent artificial shortages and black marketing of essential commodities during the emergency period.

In addition, the district administration has warned of prompt action against the circulation of misleading AI-generated images and fake news that could create panic or spread misinformation among the public.

Senior Officials Attend Preparedness Meeting

The preparedness meeting was attended by Ganjam Superintendent of Police Harish BC, Berhampur SP Abhinav Sonkar, Additional District Magistrates Sachidananda Nayak, Debadatta Panda and Sunil Kumar Kerketa, Berhampur Sub-Collector Abinash Kumar and Bhanjanagar Sub-Collector Umashankar Behera, among other officials.

The district administration has urged residents to remain alert, follow official advisories and cooperate with authorities as preparations continue to address the possible impact of the developing weather system.

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Odisha may witness the formation of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal around October 25–26, according to the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) extended-range outlook. However, a clearer assessment of its formation, movement and possible impact is expected after October 22.

Meanwhile, a trough line and an upper-air cyclonic circulation are likely to trigger rainfall across parts of Odisha over the next three days. The Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar has issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in several districts.

Yellow Warning for Five Districts

During the next 24 hours, rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is likely in Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Ganjam and Gajapati districts.

For October 18, a yellow warning has been issued for Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri districts, where thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph are possible.

Residents in the affected areas have been advised to remain cautious during thunderstorms and avoid taking shelter under trees or near electric poles.

Rainfall Likely to Decrease After October 19

According to the latest forecast, rainfall activity is expected to decrease after October 19. Most parts of the state may experience dry weather from the following day.

Weather conditions are also likely to remain generally favourable during Vijayadashami and Kumar Purnima, offering relief to people planning religious observances and festive activities.

Cyclonic Circulation May Develop Between October 22 and 24

Weather experts are monitoring the possibility of a cyclonic circulation developing over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining Andaman Sea between October 22 and 24.

Under its influence, a low-pressure area may form around October 25–26. The IMD’s extended-range outlook indicates the possibility of this system, although its exact formation and subsequent movement will become clearer with further observations.

The intensity and trajectory of the potential system will determine whether it brings fresh rainfall to Odisha and other parts of the eastern coast.

For now, the state is expected to experience a gradual reduction in rainfall after October 19. However, the possible development of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal later in the month has drawn attention to the weather outlook for the final week of October.

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Odisha is likely to experience favourable weather during the upcoming Dussehra and Kumar Purnima celebrations, with mostly dry conditions expected across the state, according to weather forecasts by Professor Surendranath Pashupalak. However, some southern and coastal districts may receive rain accompanied by thunderstorms between October 16 and 18.

Rain Likely in Southern and Coastal Districts

Between October 16 and 18, isolated places in Ganjam, Gajapati, Puri, Khurda, Jagatsinghpur, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri districts may experience light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms. Wind speeds could reach 30–40 kmph during thunderstorms.

Although the southwest monsoon has completely withdrawn from Odisha, a broad trough extends from a cyclonic circulation near the southern coast of Tamil Nadu towards the northwestern Bay of Bengal off the Odisha coast.

Variations in wind speed and direction at different atmospheric levels, along with dry northerly winds in the upper atmosphere, may restrict the development of organised rain clouds.

Dry Weather Likely From October 19

From October 19, most parts of Odisha are expected to experience dry weather, although isolated areas of southern interior Odisha may receive rainfall.

Weather conditions are likely to remain favourable for Vijayadashami celebrations around October 20–21. Night temperatures in Kandhamal and Koraput may gradually become more comfortable, but there is no indication of a sudden cold wave.

Mostly Dry Conditions During Kumar Purnima

Most parts of Odisha are likely to remain dry between October 21 and 26, with isolated rainfall possible in southern districts. Kumar Purnima, falling on October 26, may also witness predominantly dry weather if the developing weather system remains away from the Odisha coast.

A fresh cyclonic circulation may form over the southeastern Bay of Bengal and adjoining Andaman Sea between October 22 and 24. This could lead to the formation of a low-pressure area around October 25–26. Its intensity and direction of movement remain uncertain.

Advisory for Farmers

Farmers have been advised to harvest, thresh and dry mature crops during dry weather. Harvested produce should be protected from dew and unexpected rainfall. Pesticide spraying should be avoided during thunderstorms.

The weather situation after October 22 will require close monitoring.

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Odisha is likely to experience a change in weather conditions under the influence of a trough line, with rainfall expected to continue across the state over the next few days. The Regional Meteorological Centre has forecast rain until October 18, while another forecast indicates that rainfall may persist in parts of Odisha until October 21.

A yellow warning has been issued for 18 districts for thunderstorms, lightning and rain. While coastal and southern Odisha are likely to experience wet weather, conditions in western Odisha are expected to remain largely favourable, with no weather warning issued for the region.

Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds Likely

During the next 24 hours, several districts, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Khordha, Puri and Nayagarh, are likely to experience rainfall accompanied by lightning and thunderstorms. Gusty winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph may also occur in affected areas.

The districts under the yellow warning are Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Keonjhar, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Angul, Dhenkanal, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Khordha, Puri, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri.

Residents in these districts have been advised to remain cautious during thunderstorms and lightning.

Light to Moderate Rain in Some Districts

Light to moderate rainfall is also likely at isolated places in Boudh, Kalahandi and Kandhamal districts.

Meanwhile, dry weather is expected to prevail in Sundargarh and Deogarh districts. Western Odisha is likely to remain relatively unaffected by the current weather system, according to the forecast.

Despite the rainfall, some parts of the state may continue to experience hot and humid conditions. The Meteorological Centre has indicated that there is no likelihood of any significant change in maximum temperatures over the next six to seven days.

In Bhubaneswar, the maximum temperature is forecast to reach 33.2 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is likely to remain around 24.2 degrees Celsius. Cloudy skies are expected at some places.

Festive Celebrations Likely to Be Affected by Rain

The possibility of continued rainfall has raised concerns about the weather during the ongoing festive season. According to the forecast, rain may continue in Odisha until October 21, potentially affecting outdoor celebrations and pandal visits in some areas.

Coastal Odisha is likely to receive light to moderate rainfall at isolated places. However, the weather department has not indicated the possibility of widespread heavy rainfall in the region in the forecast provided.

Gusty winds reaching 30–40 kmph may accompany thunderstorms in some areas.

People are advised to follow official weather updates and take precautions during lightning and thunderstorms, particularly while travelling or participating in outdoor festivities.

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Odisha is likely to witness scattered rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning over the next few days under the influence of a Western Disturbance, while another weather system may bring more rain to the state during the festive season.

According to the latest forecast, isolated thunderstorms and rainfall are likely between October 7 and 9. On October 8, several places in coastal and adjoining districts may experience rain accompanied by lightning and gusty winds. The weather department has advised people to remain cautious during thunderstorms and avoid exposed areas.

Meanwhile, the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) has indicated the possibility of another low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal around October 13. The system could intensify into a depression around October 14 and a deep depression by October 15 before moving towards the Andhra Pradesh-Odisha coast around October 16.

If the forecast materialises, rainfall in Odisha could increase from October 14 and continue until around October 18, potentially affecting the festive season. However, the exact intensity and movement of the system will depend on subsequent weather developments.

Despite the possibility of rain, Odisha is currently experiencing considerable heat. On Tuesday, temperatures crossed 35°C in 15 cities. Chandbali recorded the highest maximum temperature at 36.7°C, followed by Dhenkanal at 36.3°C and Puri, Nayagarh and Paralakhemundi at 36°C.

For Wednesday, rainfall is likely at isolated places in Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Sundargarh, Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj. On Thursday, parts of northern and interior Odisha may receive rain.

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The southwest monsoon withdrawal process continues across the region, while a trough extending from Gangetic West Bengal to Madhya Maharashtra through Jharkhand, interior Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha and Marathwada remains active.

Under its influence, several parts of Odisha are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms over the next three days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast rainfall and thunderstorm activity across the state from October 6 to 9, with isolated heavy rainfall also possible in some areas.

A Yellow Warning has been issued for 24 districts for Tuesday. Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Subarnapur, Boudh, Nuapada, Balangir, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Koraput, Gajapati and Ganjam may experience rainfall and thunderstorms at one or two places.

Gusty winds reaching 30–40 kmph, accompanied by lightning, are also likely in these districts, prompting the weather warning.

Rainfall Forecast Till October 9

On October 7, thunderstorms and rainfall are likely in Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri. A Yellow Warning has been issued for these districts.

On October 8, several districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj, may receive rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. Several southern Odisha districts are also likely to experience similar weather conditions.

Rainfall is also expected in Puri, Khordha and Nayagarh on October 8.

On October 9, rainfall is likely at one or two places in Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Sundargarh, Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj. The overall intensity of rainfall is expected to decline thereafter.

Puri Records Second-Highest October Temperature

Meanwhile, Puri has witnessed an unusual temperature record amid the prevailing hot weather conditions. According to historical weather data dating back to 1896, Puri recorded a maximum temperature of 36.6°C on October 5, making it the second-highest October day temperature recorded in the city’s history.

The previous second-highest October temperature was 36.3°C, recorded on October 4, 2024.

The latest reading highlights the unusual heat conditions experienced in Puri in early October, even as the southwest monsoon withdrawal process continues and rainfall activity is expected to increase across parts of Odisha over the coming days.

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October has brought little relief from the heat in Odisha, with several parts of the state witnessing uncomfortable temperatures and high humidity despite the ongoing Ashwin month. The scorching conditions are being felt from the morning, while nights remain humid and uncomfortable.

The maximum temperature in Puri has crossed 36 degrees Celsius, while Bhubaneswar and Cuttack are also experiencing intense heat and humidity. According to the latest weather information, the hot and humid conditions are likely to continue for another two days across several parts of Odisha.

Southwest Monsoon Gradually Retreating

The southwest monsoon has started withdrawing from parts of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand. However, its withdrawal from Odisha is expected to take some more time.

The India Meteorological Department’s Extended Range Forecast has drawn attention to the possibility of changing weather conditions over the coming days. The combination of high temperatures and humidity has made conditions particularly uncomfortable across the state.

There is also a possibility of the formation of a cyclonic circulation over the North Andaman Sea region by around October 12. The system could subsequently lead to the formation of a low-pressure area.

However, weather officials have clarified that there is currently no forecast of a cyclone or severe cyclonic storm. The Regional Meteorological Centre has urged people not to believe or circulate unverified rumours regarding a possible cyclone.

Thunderstorm Activity Likely in Several Districts

Meanwhile, some parts of Odisha may experience thunderstorms during the next 24 hours. Light to moderate rainfall accompanied by lightning and thunder is likely in a number of areas.

Gusty winds with speeds of around 30–40 kmph may also occur during thunderstorms.

A Yellow Warning has been issued for the next 24 hours for Boudh, Subarnapur, Bargarh, Balangir, Nuapada and Kandhamal, along with all districts of northern Odisha.

For the following day, alerts have been issued for Malkangiri, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sundargarh and Jharsuguda.

Jharsuguda Records Highest Day Temperature

During the last 24 hours, Jharsuguda recorded the state’s highest maximum temperature at 35.4 degrees Celsius.

On the other hand, Phulbani recorded a significant drop in night temperature, with the mercury falling to 17.5 degrees Celsius.

The weather is expected to become somewhat more comfortable after the next two to three days. The IMD has indicated that daytime temperatures may fall by around 2–3 degrees Celsius, potentially bringing some relief from the prevailing heat and humidity.

For now, however, Odisha residents may have to endure another couple of days of uncomfortable heat before conditions are likely to improve.

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Odisha could see another spell of rain during the upcoming festive season as a fresh low-pressure system is likely to develop over the Andaman Sea in the second week of October.

According to the weather outlook, a cyclonic circulation may form over the Andaman Sea around October 12, which could intensify into a low-pressure area by October 13. The system may subsequently move towards the south-central or adjoining central Bay of Bengal around October 15, with a possibility of developing into a weak depression.

Weather expert Surendra Nath Pashupalak has indicated that the system could influence weather conditions over Odisha during the Durga Puja period, potentially bringing rainfall to parts of the state.

Puja Committees Prepare for Possible Rain

The possibility of rain during Durga Puja has become a concern for puja committees, with preparations already underway across the state.

Committees are making arrangements to protect idols and ensure the safety and convenience of devotees in case of rainfall. At Rasulgarh, where a puja is being organised beneath the bridge, arrangements have reportedly been made to provide shelter to devotees during rain.

Temporary stalls have also been set up around the puja venue, which can be used by visitors for shelter if rainfall occurs.

Odisha Experiencing Hot Weather

Meanwhile, Odisha is currently experiencing hot and dry conditions following the heavy rainfall and flooding triggered by the recent deep depression.

Nayagarh recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 36°C during the past 24 hours. Bhubaneswar recorded 35.5°C, while Cuttack registered 34.8°C. Phulbani recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 20°C.

For the next three days, no rainfall or other significant weather warning has been issued for any district of Odisha, and dry weather is expected to prevail.

Daytime temperatures are likely to remain high and may rise by another 1°C to 2°C in the coming days.

The evolving low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal will be closely watched as its strength, movement and potential impact on Odisha become clearer closer to mid-October.

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Odisha is gearing up for heavy to very heavy rainfall as a low-pressure area formed over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a deep depression. According to the latest assessment, the system is unlikely to develop into a cyclone but may trigger significant rainfall across several parts of the state.

The state government has stepped up preparedness measures to deal with the possible weather-related situation following a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg.

Rain to Intensify From Tomorrow

According to the weather department’s assessment, rainfall activity in Odisha is expected to increase from tomorrow. September 23 and 24 are likely to be particularly sensitive days, with heavy to very heavy rainfall forecast during the period.

Around 11 districts are expected to be more affected by the weather system. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have directed district administrations to remain prepared for any eventuality.

Districts Asked to Remain Alert

Collectors of all coastal and southern Odisha districts have been instructed to remain alert and take necessary precautionary measures.

The administration has also directed all districts to open emergency control rooms to ensure quick coordination and response in case of heavy rainfall, waterlogging or other weather-related incidents.

24-Hour SRC Control Room Operational

The Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) office has started operating a 24-hour control room from today to monitor the situation across the state.

The control room will coordinate with district administrations and other concerned agencies to facilitate a timely response to any emergency arising from the rainfall.

With the weather system expected to bring intense rainfall over the next few days, the state administration has advised field-level officials to remain vigilant and ensure necessary preparedness in vulnerable areas.

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Concerns are rising in Odisha over a possible cyclonic storm developing in the Bay of Bengal. Weather agencies are closely monitoring a system that is expected to strengthen over the coming days. However, its exact intensity and movement are yet to be confirmed.

Low-Pressure Area Likely Over Andaman Sea

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a low-pressure area is likely to form over the north Andaman Sea by tomorrow evening. The system may gradually intensify into a depression and then a deep depression. Further strengthening into a cyclonic storm cannot be ruled out at this stage.

Weather models, including ECMWF and GFS, are also indicating the possibility of gradual intensification after the system forms.

Rainfall to Increase From September 22

Rainfall activity is expected to increase across Odisha from September 22. The Regional Meteorological Centre has issued an Orange Alert for southern Odisha, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall.

Around 20 districts are expected to experience the impact of the weather system. District collectors have been advised to remain alert and take necessary preparedness measures.

If the system moves northwards, rainfall could intensify over coastal Odisha, north coastal districts and adjoining interior areas.

Disaster Management Department Reviews Preparedness

The Odisha Disaster Management Department has conducted a review meeting to assess preparedness. Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the state government is in constant touch with the IMD and monitoring the system closely.

Pujari said the cyclonic circulation under discussion is currently over Thailand and is expected to reach the Andaman region tomorrow. He added that it could potentially develop into a cyclonic storm within the next one or two days.

Clearer Picture After Tomorrow

The minister said it is too early to make a definite assessment about the system’s movement. A clearer picture is expected after tomorrow evening.

He also urged people not to panic and advised them to remain alert and follow official weather advisories.

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