Bhubaneswar: A low-pressure area has formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal-North Odisha coasts, raising the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rain in several parts of the state in next four days.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system has developed under the influence of a cyclonic circulation over southwest Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh. The low-pressure area is expected to intensify further and become more marked over the next two days.
The weather system is likely to trigger widespread rainfall across Odisha, with coastal and adjoining districts expected to bear the brunt of the downpour.
Districts under the heavy to very heavy rainfall warning include Kataka, Khordha, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapada, Kendujhar, Anugola, Dhenkanal, Jajpur, Nayagad, Baleshwar, and Bhadrak.
The IMD has issued an orange warning of very heavy rainfall today in four districts including Kendujhar, Anugola, Dhenkanal, and Kataka. Additionally, a yellow warning for heavy rainfall has been issued for 16 districts. The weather department has also forecast gusty winds with speeds of 30 to 40 kmph accompanied by rain over several districts.
As sea conditions are likely to remain rough, fishermen have also been strictly advised not to venture into the sea till July 27.
The IMD has urged people in the affected districts to stay alert, avoid waterlogging-prone areas, and take necessary precautions against lightning and strong winds. Farmers and residents in low-lying areas have also been asked to remain cautious of water accumulation.