Low-pressure over BoB: IMD issues orange alert for Odisha, warns of heavy rain for next three days

Odisha is expected to receive intense rainfall and thunderstorms over the next 72 hours, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing an orange alert for several districts. 

Triggered by an active low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal and adjoining regions, the weather pattern is expected to bring widespread rain, lightning, and strong surface winds to large parts of the state.

Orange Alert in Key Northern Districts

The IMD has placed Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar under an orange alert for today, warning of heavy to very heavy rain accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 km/h.

These districts are likely to witness the most intense weather activity, with localised flooding, waterlogging, and disruption to transport and daily life a possibility.

Alongside the orange warning, six other districts of Dhenkanal, Angul, Deogarh, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Bargarh have been issued a yellow warning, indicating the likelihood of strong rainfall and thunderstorms that warrant caution.

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Wider Rainfall Forecast for Odisha

According to the IMD’s midday bulletin on Tuesday, the low-pressure system was over Gangetic West Bengal and adjoining northern Odisha, Jharkhand, and nearby areas.

It is supported by a cyclonic circulation extending up to 5.8 km above the mean sea level, which is expected to move slowly in a west-northwest direction across Jharkhand in the next 24 hours.

This weather system is enhancing monsoon activity across the region, resulting in widespread rainfall over both interior and coastal Odisha. Light to moderate rain or thundershowers are very likely at most places in interior districts and at many places along the coast, the IMD said.

District-wise Risk Mapping and Expected Impact

Today’s high-risk zones under the orange alert, particularly Sundargarh, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj, are expected to see heavy water accumulation, poor visibility, and possible disruption to outdoor activities and road transport. Residents have been advised to remain indoors and avoid low-lying areas.

Meanwhile, districts under the yellow warning, including Bargarh, Deogarh, and Angul, could witness strong winds, lightning strikes, and isolated heavy showers.

Thunderstorms may develop quickly and lead to temporary power outages or damage to trees and infrastructure, especially in rural areas, added the weather report.