Low pressure forms over BoB: Widespread rain, gusty winds to grip Odisha; no cyclone threat for now: IMD

Odisha is set to witness another prolonged spell of rainfall as a low-pressure area formed over the southeast Bay of Bengal on Tuesday, triggering showers and gusty winds across several parts of the state.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the system may intensify into a depression over the central Bay during the next 48 hours, bringing widespread rainfall from October 22 to 26.

The IMD regional centre in Bhubaneswar has forecast light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and gusty winds for both coastal and interior districts.

Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Kalahandi and Rayagada are among the districts likely to experience the most impact during the next two days. Wind speeds may reach 30 to 40 kmph, accompanied by lightning in some areas, said the forecast.

IMD Forecast: Rain for Five to Seven Days

The upper air cyclonic circulation over the south Andaman Sea and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal extends up to 5.8 km above mean sea level. Under its influence, a low-pressure area has formed and is likely to move west-northwestwards, intensifying into a depression during the next 48 hours, said the IMD.

It also added that the shift in wind direction and increased moisture will keep rainfall activity active across the state for nearly a week.

ALSO READ: Odisha out of cyclone zone for now; IMD to issue fresh forecast after Oct 21

No Cyclone Warning for Odisha

While localised gusts and heavy showers are expected, the IMD has ruled out any immediate cyclone threat. The regional centre clarified that the present system shows no signs of intensifying into a cyclonic storm.

According to the forecast, rainfall intensity may increase around October 24, particularly over southern and coastal Odisha. The showers are expected to persist till October 26, keeping temperatures moderate and skies overcast through the week.