The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) regional center in Delhi issued an orange warning for severe to very heavy rainfall in a few areas in 13 districts of Odisha due to a low-pressure area over the northern and western Bay of Bengal. A cyclonic storm could occur as a result of the low-pressure system that has formed in the vicinity.
Some areas of Puri, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Angul, Nayagarh, Khurdha, and Jagatsinghpur are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall on Friday, according to the weather office.
The IMD is keeping a close eye on the situation and has advised residents in sensitive locations to take the required precautions. The state government has sent emergency response teams to assist in case of any eventualities.
Aside from the cyclone warning, the Malakangiri district has seen heavy rains, flooding, and landslides, leading officials to conduct flood-control measures. The water levels in some rivers are rising dramatically, and immediate action is being taken to protect residents and property.
As a precautionary measure, the cyclone warning has resulted in the suspension of lessons at primary schools in flood-prone locations. The Malkangiri district administration had directed employees to ensure that vital supplies and rescue equipment were available.
A dedicated control center has been established to coordinate reaction activities, and the situation is being continuously monitored. The Disaster Relief Commission has been asked to ensure that resources are quickly available and that aid is provided when needed.
Forecast and warning for Friday (valid from 0830 hrs IST on July 21, 2023 to 0830 hrs IST on July 22, 2023):
Orange Warning: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in one or two locations over the districts of Nuapada, Bolangir, Kalahandi, Bargarh, Boudh, Sonepur, and Sambalpur.
Yellow Warning: Heavy rain is expected in one or two areas over the districts of Malkangiri, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Angul, Nayagarh, Cuttack, and Dhenkanal.
Source:OCN