Threat to Durga puja festivities in Odisha as Depression to form over Bay of Bengal; IMD predicts heavy rainfall

A low-pressure area formed over the Bay of Bengal has become well-marked and is likely to intensify into a depression, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted on Wednesday. 

According to the Met office, the system is expected to trigger heavy and continuous rainfall across Odisha, threatening to disrupt Dussehra festivities, including idol immersions.

The IMD has issued a state-wide warning for heavy rainfall accompanied by gusty winds. Eight districts have been placed under a Yellow Warning, with predictions of 7 to 11 cm of rainfall. Wind speeds may reach 40–50 kmph in several coastal and interior regions.

For Wednesday, an orange warning has been issued for five southern districts, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Gajapati, Koraput, and Malkangiri, forecasting very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. The remaining 25 districts of Odisha will remain under a yellow warning for heavy showers.

As per the IMD's latest prediction, a depression is expected to form over the Bay of Bengal within the next 12 hours. It is likely to further intensify into a deep depression. The system may bring heavy rainfall during Dussehra, with the possibility of continued heavy rain tomorrow and on October 3.

Also Read: Low pressure to intensify into depression on Dussehra, heavy to very heavy rain likely to lash Odisha

Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious, avoid waterlogged and vulnerable areas, and fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea due to rough conditions. The regional weather office also warned of possible flooding in low-lying areas and disruption of transport and power supply if rainfall continues unabated.