Bhubaneswar, Aug 13: Odisha is set to witness another spell of intense rainfall as a well-marked low-pressure area over coastal West Bengal, adjoining Bangladesh and the northwest Bay of Bengal is likely to strengthen further and move northwestwards.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall with isolated extremely heavy showers over Odisha today. Rainfall activity is expected to continue on August 14, with isolated heavy to very heavy showers, while heavy rainfall may occur at isolated places on August 15 and 16.
The weather system is likely to move towards Jharkhand, affecting neighbouring regions as it progresses. Gangetic West Bengal is also expected to receive extremely heavy rainfall on August 13, followed by heavy to very heavy rainfall on August 14 and heavy rainfall on August 15.
The system is likely to produce squally winds of 40–50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, over the North Bay of Bengal and along and off the Odisha, West Bengal and Bangladesh coasts.
In view of the rough sea conditions, fishermen have been advised not to venture into the North Bay of Bengal and along or off the Odisha-West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts until August 14.
Several districts in north Odisha have already recorded intense rainfall, increasing the possibility of waterlogging, flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas. Rising water levels in rivers and reservoirs are also being closely monitored.
Authorities have been advised to remain on high alert, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas, and to take timely precautionary measures to minimise the impact of the continuing heavy rainfall.
Residents have been urged to remain cautious, follow official weather advisories and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall.
The IMD is closely monitoring the movement and strengthening of the weather system and will issue further updates as the situation evolves.
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