Bhubaneswar, 22 August (H.S.): Odisha is likely to witness another spell of widespread rainfall as a fresh low-pressure area is expected to form over the northern Bay of Bengal within the next 24 hours, the Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar said.

According to the weather office, a cyclonic circulation currently prevailing over the sea off West Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh is likely to trigger the development of the new weather system.

The system is expected to enhance rainfall activity across Odisha, with heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning likely in several parts of the state during the next 24 hours.

The IMD has issued an Orange Warning for Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Koraput, Rayagada and Gajapati districts. These districts may receive 12 cm to 20 cm of rainfall, raising the possibility of waterlogging, localised flooding and disruption to normal life, particularly in vulnerable areas.

Another 16 districts have been placed under a Yellow Warning for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms accompanied by lightning.

The wet weather is likely to persist, with rainfall activity expected to continue across Odisha for the next seven days under the influence of the developing weather system.

In view of the expected deterioration in weather conditions and rough sea conditions, authorities have advised fishermen not to venture into the sea until August 24.

People in the districts under warning have been advised to remain alert and follow official weather updates, particularly during thunderstorms and periods of heavy rainfall.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda