Bhubaneswar, 18 July (H.S.) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast the formation of a fresh low-pressure area over the north Bay of Bengal around July 24, which is expected to bring widespread rainfall to several parts of Odisha.

According to the IMD, the anticipated weather system is likely to form due to an upper air cyclonic circulation, which will enhance moisture inflow and cloud development over the region. The system may gradually intensify into a depression and move in a west-northwestward direction across Gangetic West Bengal, north Odisha, adjoining Jharkhand, and south Chhattisgarh over the subsequent 2–3 days.

In anticipation of the system, the Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre has predicted increased rainfall activity across Odisha starting July 23, which may continue for three to four days. Coastal and northern parts of the state are likely to receive particularly heavy rainfall during this period.

A yellow warning has been issued for 22 districts, with the IMD advising caution in view of the possibility of localized flooding and waterlogging. The warning covers the western, southern, and northern regions of the state, where heavy rainfall is expected. However, a few coastal districts may remain relatively dry.

Weather officials are closely monitoring the evolving system and will issue further updates as more data becomes available.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda