Bhubaneswar: A low-pressure area formed over the Bay of Bengal on Tuesday, raising the likelihood of heavy downpour in Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.
Under the influence of the cyclonic circulation over Northwest and adjoining Westcentral Bay of Bengal, a low-pressure area has formed over Northwest Bay of Bengal off Odisha coast at 8.30 am, it said.
“The associated cyclonic circulation extends up to 7.6 km above mean sea level tilting southwards with height. It is likely to move slowly northwards and become more marked during next 48 hours,” the weather agency said.
Under its influence, many parts of Odisha are likely to experience intense rainfall up to May 30, providing relief from the scorching summer heat while also facilitating the early arrival of the southwest monsoon.
While the low-pressure system does not pose any cyclone threat, the system is expected to create favourable conditions for the southwest monsoon to advance into Odisha following its onset in Kerala on May 24.
In view of the IMD forecast, the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) of Odisha on Tuesday directed Collectors of all districts to remain prepared to deal with heavy rain and thunderstorm that may be triggered by the system.
In a message to the Collectors, the SRC asked them to submit a report on the damage, if occurred due to thunderstorm, whirlwind, hailstorm, lightning and rainfall immediately for information of the government.
The IMD has also warned of squally weather with gusty surface wind speed, exceeding 45 kmph , over central bay and adjoining North bay of Bengal from May 29 to June 1 and along and off Odisha coast from May 29 to June 1.