Bhubaneswar: Odisha is witnessing another spell of intense rainfall, with a well-marked low-pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal areas driving heavy to very heavy rain across several parts of the state. The Odisha rain alert comes as flood conditions worsen in parts of northern Odisha, particularly Bhadrak and neighbouring districts.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the low-pressure system over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining West Bengal–north Odisha coasts was classified as a well-marked low-pressure area on August 16.
The latest weather situation has prompted heightened monitoring across the state, with authorities preparing for further rainfall and possible flooding.
Odisha rain alert: Four districts under red warning
Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore and Bhadrak have been placed under a red warning for the forecast period mentioned in the supplied information. Another 11 districts have been issued orange warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall.
The warnings come amid continued rainfall across Odisha, with northern and coastal districts facing particularly difficult conditions.
The IMD has also continued to monitor the weather system affecting the region. Its national bulletin issued on August 17 confirmed the presence of a depression over coastal West Bengal and adjoining areas, highlighting the continuing influence of the system on weather conditions in the region.
Bhadrak flood situation deteriorates
The situation in Bhadrak has become a major concern following continuous rainfall. Flooding has affected several areas of the district, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures.
According to the information provided, all schools and Anganwadi centres in Bhadrak have been declared closed for the day as a precautionary step.
Recent reports also indicate that flooding has affected hundreds of villages across northern Odisha, with several rivers, including the Baitarani, Brahmani, Salandi, Jalaka and Budhabalanga, experiencing rising water levels.
The worsening situation has led to large-scale evacuation efforts. A report published on August 17 said more than 2.37 lakh people had been evacuated to safer locations as flooding intensified in several districts.
Balasore faces waterlogging and travel disruption
Balasore is also experiencing the impact of persistent rainfall. According to the supplied information, water has accumulated to more than two feet on Nuasahi Road, creating difficulties for local movement.
The waterlogging has reportedly disrupted travel between Remuna and Balasore, adding to the problems faced by residents as rainfall continues.
Such disruptions are particularly significant in low-lying areas, where prolonged heavy rain can quickly affect roads, drainage systems and local connectivity.
Chief Minister to review flood situation
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is scheduled to visit flood-affected areas of Bhadrak and Jajpur to assess the situation and review relief operations.
A separate report said the Chief Minister would conduct an aerial survey of affected areas, with particular attention to Bhadrak and Jajpur.
The state administration is also continuing rescue and relief efforts as rainfall and rising river levels create challenging conditions in several northern districts.
More rain remains a concern
The current weather system has created conditions favourable for continued heavy rainfall over Odisha. The IMD’s recent bulletins have tracked the movement and strengthening of low-pressure systems affecting Odisha and neighbouring regions.
For residents in areas under red and orange warnings, the immediate concern remains waterlogging, river swelling and possible flooding. People in affected locations should follow instructions issued by local authorities and avoid unnecessary travel through flooded roads.
With heavy rainfall continuing and flood conditions worsening in parts of the state, the Odisha rain alert remains a key concern for residents, commuters and district administrations.
