Cyclone Montha: IMD issues red and orange alerts for heavy rainfall in several Odisha districts

Even though Cyclone Montha is expected to move away from Odisha after forming its eye over the Bay of Bengal, its outer bands will bring widespread rain and strong winds across the state from October 28, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned.

According to the IMD, the impact of Cyclone Montha will be most severe between October 28 and 29, with extremely heavy rainfall predicted in several southern and coastal districts.

A red warning has been issued for Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Gajapati, and Ganjam districts on October 28, where extremely heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely. Orange alert has been issued for Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Nayagarh, Khordha, and Puri districts for heavy to very heavy rainfall.

On October 29, Malkangiri, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, and Rayagada will continue to remain under the red warning category, while Gajapati, Ganjam, Kandhamal, Boudh, Nuapada, and Balangir are placed under the orange alert for intense rainfall activity.

Wind speeds are likely to reach 60–70 kmph in southern Odisha districts and 50–70 kmph along the coastal belt, particularly in Puri, Khordha, and Kandhamal. The gusty winds could cause damage to thatched houses, uproot trees, and disrupt power and communication lines.

Heavy rainfall and strong winds may also lead to crop damage, particularly affecting paddy and vegetable fields in low-lying areas. The sea will remain very rough to high, and fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea from October 26 onwards. Those already in deep waters have been asked to return to the coast immediately.

Also Read: Cyclone Montha and rain threat: Farmers rush to harvest unripe paddy in Odisha

Authorities across the state have been put on high alert, with the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) directing district administrations to prepare for possible flooding, landslides, and disruption in essential services as Cyclone Montha approaches the coast.