Heavy rain in Odisha leaves rivers in spate, flood threat looms

Continuous heavy rainfall has triggered a sharp rise in water levels of the Jalaka and Budhabalanga rivers in Balasore district on Friday. 

As per reports, both rivers have already crossed the danger mark, raising fears of fresh flooding in the region.

As a result, water has started inundating farmlands and several villages in the Balasore Sadar area, with floodwaters flowing over roads near Gujuri Bazar Square.

Meanwhile, relentless rain over the past two days in Mayurbhanj district, particularly in Rasgovindpur, Morada, Shuliapada, and Chitrada blocks, has further swelled river levels. Residents in the areas fear that the situation may escalate into a full-scale flood.

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If flooding occurs, at least 10 panchayats under the Basta block, including Mathani, Baharda, and Kudia, are likely to be severely affected. Thousands of hectares of farmland, where paddy was recently transplanted, are at risk of submergence. Farmers fear the standing crop could rot and be destroyed, adding to their woes.

According to the Meteorological Department, Odisha is likely to see some relief from continuous rainfall from Friday onwards, though several regions may still face thunderstorms and lightning.

A yellow warning has been issued for 20 districts, with forecasts of light to moderate rain, thunder, and winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph. These conditions are expected to continue until September 8.