Bhubaneswar, October 29, 2026: Cyclone Arnab has weakened into a deep depression, but the weather system continues to pose a risk of heavy rainfall across Odisha. The system was located approximately 60 kilometres south of Malkangiri, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), with further weakening expected as it moves northwards.
Although the storm has lost strength, its influence on rainfall across the state remains a concern. Western and northern Odisha are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places on Thursday, October 29, according to the forecast provided in the news summary.
Cyclone Arnab Odisha Update: System Expected to Weaken Further
The deep depression was centred near Malkangiri after Cyclone Arnab weakened from its earlier cyclonic intensity. The IMD’s October 29 bulletin reported that the system was moving nearly northwards at around 15 kilometres per hour.
The weather system was expected to weaken further into a depression during Thursday morning and subsequently become a well-marked low-pressure area by the evening. However, weakening does not immediately eliminate the risk of heavy rain, as the system can continue to influence weather conditions after losing its cyclonic strength. Hindusthan Samachar English+1
Rainfall and local weather conditions may vary across districts depending on the system’s movement and associated atmospheric conditions.
Heavy Rainfall Expected in Western and Northern Odisha
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected at isolated locations in western and northern parts of Odisha on October 29. Residents in vulnerable areas should remain alert to changing weather conditions, particularly where persistent rain could lead to waterlogging or affect road travel.
Earlier IMD forecasts identified Bargarh, Jharsuguda and Sundargarh among the western Odisha districts facing an orange warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall on October 29–30. The precise warning status for individual districts should be checked against the latest official bulletin. Odisha+1
Rainfall associated with a weakening weather system can still disrupt everyday activities, especially in areas with poor drainage or locations vulnerable to local flooding. Residents should avoid assuming that conditions are safe simply because the cyclone has weakened.
What Residents Should Keep in Mind
The weakening of Cyclone Arnab is an important development, but rainfall-related risks may continue in affected parts of Odisha. People living in low-lying areas should pay attention to local weather alerts and any instructions issued by district administrations.
Residents should take basic precautions during periods of heavy rain, including avoiding flooded roads, staying away from swollen rivers and streams, and being careful around damaged trees or electrical lines. Farmers and people travelling through rain-affected areas should also monitor local conditions before making plans.
The IMD continues to monitor the system, and forecasts may change as it weakens and moves inland. For the latest district-wise warnings, residents should consult the official IMD website at mausam.imd.gov.in and follow advisories issued by local authorities.
What Happens Next?
Cyclone Arnab is expected to weaken further into a well-marked low-pressure area, according to the latest forecast available for this report. However, the immediate weather concern remains the possibility of heavy rainfall in parts of Odisha, including western and northern districts.
The Cyclone Arnab Odisha situation highlights why residents should continue to follow official weather updates even after a cyclone loses intensity. The extent and distribution of rainfall will depend on the system’s subsequent movement and changing weather conditions.
