IMD's heavy rainfall forecast for Odisha: SRC asks Collectors, Municipal Commissioners to be prepared

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday issued an 'orange warning' for heavy/ intense spell of rainfall in the twin cities of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.

As per IMD's latest advisory, moderate rain/ thunderstorm with one or two intense spell (2-3 cm/hr) of rain is likely to occur between 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm today. This could possibly lead to temporary traffic congestion in several parts of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar. Hence, people should avoid movement as far as possible.

Earlier, normal life across Cuttack and Bhubaneswar was affected following incessant rains that continued to lash since early morning today. As per IMD, several parts of Odisha experienced rainfall activities today.

Jharsuguda district recorded the highest 118.4 mm of rainfall between 8:30 am to 11:30 am today. Similarly, Chandbali recorded 68.2 mm of rainfall, Bhubaneswar (35.2mm), Balasore (13.5mm) and Hiradkud recorded 10.2 mm of rainfall during this period.

As per IMD, a cyclonic circulation lies over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and a cyclonic circulation will form over Northwest Bay of Bengal around July 16.

The Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) has asked Collectors, and Municipal Commissioners to take necessary measures in view of IMD's forecast of heavy rainfall from July 15 to July 19, 2023 in the state.