Bhubaneswar, Oct. 4 (UDN): Odisha is once again facing heightened weather anxiety as a fresh low-pressure system is likely to develop over the Bay of Bengal, raising concerns about a possible cyclone at a time when large parts of the state are still recovering from months of severe flooding.
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October Brings Back Cyclone Concerns
With the southwest monsoon entering its withdrawal phase, weather conditions over the Bay of Bengal are becoming favourable for the development of low-pressure systems. While it is too early to determine whether the emerging system will intensify into a cyclone, the possibility has prompted increased vigilance across Odisha.
October has historically been one of the most sensitive months for the state’s coastline. Odisha has witnessed several major cyclonic events during the post-monsoon season, including the 1999 Super Cyclone, Cyclone Phailin in 2013, Cyclone Titli in 2018 and Cyclone Dana in 2024.
The recurring threat during October has once again brought memories of devastating storms back to coastal communities.
Flood-Hit Odisha Faces Fresh Challenge
The emerging weather system could pose an additional challenge to a state already grappling with the impact of an exceptionally wet monsoon.
Odisha recorded around 29 per cent excess rainfall by the end of September, with the 2026 monsoon season emerging as one of the wettest in recent decades. Major rivers, including the Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani, Rushikulya and Budhabalanga, have repeatedly swollen, triggering floods across several districts.
According to state authorities, 28 districts have been affected by the prolonged flooding, while more than 2.37 lakh people were evacuated to safer locations during recent flood emergencies.
Large stretches of agricultural land in districts such as Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Mayurbhanj, Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput and Malkangiri have suffered prolonged inundation, leaving farmers facing substantial crop losses.
Saturated Ground Raises New Risks
The potential cyclone threat comes with another major concern—the condition of the ground.
After months of heavy rainfall, soil across many vulnerable areas remains saturated. Any spell of intense rain accompanied by strong winds could increase the risk of tree uprooting, landslides, road damage, drainage congestion and prolonged waterlogging.
For farmers, the threat is particularly serious. Paddy and other standing crops that have already endured repeated flooding could suffer further damage if the developing weather system brings heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Disaster Response Machinery on Standby
Odisha has significantly strengthened its disaster preparedness over the years and is widely recognised for its large-scale evacuation and response operations during extreme weather events.
Authorities are expected to closely monitor the evolving system, with ODRAF, NDRF, Fire Services personnel and cyclone shelters forming the backbone of the state’s emergency preparedness.
However, officials and weather experts are likely to face a difficult balancing act—ensuring early preparedness without creating unnecessary panic, while remaining ready for rapid evacuation if the system intensifies.
Intensity and Track Yet to Be Clear
Meteorological conditions may support the formation and gradual strengthening of a low-pressure system, but its eventual trajectory and intensity cannot yet be determined with certainty.
Weather experts are expected to get a clearer picture as the system develops and more atmospheric data becomes available.
For Odisha, however, the message remains familiar: October demands caution. With the state still recovering from a prolonged flood crisis, authorities and residents are being urged to remain alert and closely follow official weather updates in the days ahead.
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