Bhubaneswar, 17 August (H.S.): The Regional Meteorological Centre on Sunday forecast the formation of a fresh low-pressure area over the northwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal by Monday, which is expected to trigger heavy rainfall across Odisha.

Under its influence, several districts are likely to witness intensified showers, raising the risk of waterlogging and flood-like conditions. Parts of the state have already begun receiving rainfall, and the intensity is expected to increase further over the next 48 hours.

The Met Office has issued a Yellow Alert for 24 districts today, predicting rainfall in the range of 7 to 11 cm. For Monday, an Orange Alert has been sounded for Koraput and Malkangiri, where very heavy rainfall is likely. On August 19, Koraput and Kalahandi districts will remain under Orange Warning, while other regions may also experience heavy showers.

Fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea between August 18 and 20, as sea conditions are expected to remain rough and unsafe. Authorities have urged residents, particularly in low-lying and vulnerable areas, to remain alert as continuous downpour could severely disrupt normal life.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda