Bhubaneswar, Sept 19 [UDN}:Southern Odisha is experiencing heavy to very heavy rainfall under the influence of the second low-pressure system that has developed over the region, triggering concerns over rising water levels and flash-flood-like conditions in several areas.
According to Dillip Raut, Engineer-in-Chief of the Water Resources Department, intense rainfall has been recorded at several locations, particularly in Malkangiri district. The rainfall has led to a sharp increase in water flow in rivers and drainage systems, while some areas are witnessing temporary inundation.
The Balimela Dam area recorded around 219 mm of rainfall, while Malkangiri and Chitrakonda recorded about 192 mm of rainfall. Such intense rainfall has raised concerns about sudden increases in water levels in streams and rivers across the southern districts.
A flash-flood-like situation has been reported in the upper catchment areas of the Kolab system following the heavy downpour. Water has reportedly accumulated to nearly two feet over the Poteru and Podia bridges, affecting movement in the surrounding areas.
The latest spell of rainfall comes after the first low-pressure system had already affected parts of southern Odisha, particularly Rayagada and Gajapati districts, with significant rainfall reported in those areas.
Meanwhile, the Water Resources Department has clarified that there is currently no flood situation in the Brahmani, Baitarani and Salandi river systems, despite the rise in water levels following the recent rainfall.
At Hirakud Reservoir, floodwater is presently being released through one gate, with authorities closely monitoring the inflow and outflow situation.
Officials are maintaining close watch over rainfall, river levels, reservoir inflows and vulnerable locations, particularly in southern Odisha, as the second low-pressure system continues to influence weather conditions.
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