Heavy rain likely in Odisha till July 5: IMD issues orange and yellow alerts across several districts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall across Odisha till July 5, as a low-pressure area has formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal regions of West Bengal and Bangladesh. Due to this system, many parts of Odisha are likely to receive moderate to heavy rainfall over the next few days.

In response to the weather conditions, IMD has issued a Red Warning for extremely heavy rainfall in four districts today- Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, and Balasore, indicating a very high likelihood of adverse impacts and urging authorities to remain on high alert.

Additionally, Orange Warnings have been issued for seven districts, and Yellow Warnings for 15 districts, highlighting varying degrees of expected rainfall intensity and potential disruption.

For July 1, IMD has issued Orange Warnings for four districts- Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, and Jharsuguda, where very heavy rainfall is likely. These regions are advised to prepare for waterlogging, disruption in transport and power supply, and increased risk of landslides in hilly terrain.

Meanwhile, 14 other districts (Bargarh, Balangir, Subarnapur, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Nuapada, and Nabarangpur) have been placed under Yellow Warning due to the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall. People in these areas are advised to stay alert, especially those in low-lying or flood-prone regions.

The state’s Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) has urged all district Collectors to remain vigilant, ensure the functioning of control rooms, and be ready with emergency response teams. Fishermen have been warned against venturing into the sea due to rough conditions in the Bay of Bengal.

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The Odisha government has also directed disaster response forces, including ODRAF and fire services, to stay on standby for any emergency rescue or relief operations in vulnerable districts.

As monsoon activity intensifies, residents are advised to monitor weather updates, follow official advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall.