Bhubaneswar, October 29, 2026: Cyclone Arnab Odisha impact has been severe in several southern districts, where torrential rainfall has flooded bridges, damaged roads, uprooted trees and triggered landslides. Gajapati, Ganjam and Rayagada are among the affected districts, with rising river levels and disrupted transport adding to concerns for residents.
Although the cyclone weakened after making landfall along the neighbouring Andhra Pradesh coast, its associated weather system continued to bring heavy rain to parts of Odisha. The resulting flooding has affected road connectivity, low-lying settlements and agricultural land. The New Indian Express+1
Bridges Submerged, Roads Damaged in Gajapati
Gajapati district has experienced significant disruption from continuous rainfall and water runoff from the surrounding hills. In Mohana block, the Gundriguda bridge collapsed, while sections of the Kaipur-Burukhata road were washed away by heavy runoff from the Mahendragiri hills. The New Indian Express
The situation also affected National Highway 326 near Palukhola at Taptapani Ghat, along the Ganjam-Gajapati border. Muddy water flowing down the hills inundated the road, leaving vehicles stranded on both sides and disrupting traffic.
Several connecting roads were covered by floodwater, while rising water levels in local waterways disrupted access between villages. These incidents highlight the risks posed by intense rainfall in hilly areas, where runoff can quickly damage roads and bridges.
Ganjam Faces Flooding as River Levels Rise
Ganjam district also reported flooding in several locations following heavy rainfall. Rising water in the Ghodahada River disrupted traffic along an important stretch connecting Aska, Patapur and Digapahandi.
On Wednesday, October 28, floodwater flowed over the Patapur-Palaspur bridge, prompting authorities to suspend traffic and barricade both ends to prevent people and vehicles from attempting to cross. Another bridge on the Dhowpada-Saba-Patashala road at Andhari was submerged under nearly four feet of water, according to local reporting. The New Indian Express
Heavy rainfall also inundated low-lying areas in Dharakote, Chikiti, Patrapur, Digapahandi and Sanakhemundi, as well as parts of Berhampur. Paddy fields and vegetable crops were submerged in several areas, while some houses reportedly sustained damage.
The flooding has raised concerns about local transport, access to essential services and potential losses for farmers.
Rayagada Reports Uprooted Trees and Road Disruptions
In Rayagada district, strong winds and heavy showers disrupted normal life. Uprooted trees blocked roads, including a route near Rekhaliguda village in Kalyansinghpur block.
Fire services personnel and local residents worked together to remove a fallen tree and restore vehicle movement. Although rainfall and wind intensity had weakened in parts of Rayagada, the district administration remained on alert as the effects of the storm continued. The New Indian Express
Cyclone Weakens, but Heavy Rain Remains a Concern
The India Meteorological Department reported on October 29 that Cyclone Arnab had weakened into a deep depression. At the time of the update, the system was moving northwards near southern Odisha and was expected to weaken further. Despite the reduction in intensity, the remaining weather system continued to contribute to heavy rainfall across southern districts. India News+1
The impact of the cyclone extends beyond immediate flooding. Damaged roads, submerged bridges and landslides can delay emergency services and interrupt access to healthcare, markets and other essential facilities.
The Odisha government has reviewed the situation and directed officials to speed up the restoration of electricity, drinking water and communication services. Rescue and emergency response teams, including the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force, the National Disaster Response Force and Fire Services, have been instructed to remain on alert. Chief Minister of Odisha
What Residents Should Keep in Mind
Residents in affected areas should avoid crossing submerged bridges, flooded roads and fast-flowing streams, even when the water appears shallow. People living near rivers, hillsides and low-lying settlements should follow instructions issued by their local administrations and move to safer locations if directed.
Motorists should check road conditions before travelling through flood-affected areas. Residents should also rely on official weather bulletins and district administration advisories for updated information about rainfall, river levels and transport restrictions.
Cyclone Arnab Odisha impact remains a concern as authorities continue monitoring rainfall, flooding and infrastructure damage. While the storm has weakened, the immediate priority is to protect residents, restore road connectivity and essential services, and assess the full extent of the damage across southern Odisha.
