Bhubaneswar, 22 August (H.S.): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast another spell of heavy rainfall in Odisha, with a fresh low-pressure area likely to form over the Bay of Bengal after August 27. The developing system is expected to bring widespread rains, particularly affecting northern and interior parts of the state.

Even as Odisha continues to experience showers due to an existing low-pressure system, the IMD’s regional centre has issued an orange warning for five districts Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Sundargarh, and Jharsuguda indicating the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds over the coming days.

Residents in the warned districts have been advised to remain vigilant, as the downpour may cause waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and rising water levels in rivers and canals. The IMD has also cautioned against lightning strikes and possible structural damage from winds reaching speeds up to 30 km/h, particularly affecting weak constructions and trees.

A yellow warning has been issued for the rest of the state, forecasting moderate rainfall, thunderstorm activity, and localized disruptions.

Authorities have urged farmers to take preventive measures to safeguard standing crops, while district administrations have been directed to stay on high alert and activate emergency response protocols where necessary.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda