Bhubaneswar, 16 September (H.S.): Odisha is likely to continue experiencing rainfall over the next week, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing weather warnings for different parts of the State until September 22.

According to the weather department, a cyclonic circulation over the north-west Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas is influencing the weather pattern and is likely to bring light to moderate rainfall to several parts of Odisha.

Rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is expected in more than half of the districts on Wednesday and Thursday. The IMD has issued a yellow warning for 20 districts during this period.

On September 18, a yellow warning has been issued for 17 districts. Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Jajpur and Balasore are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall on the day.

Rainfall activity is expected to continue on September 19, when a yellow warning has been issued for 30 districts for thunderstorms, lightning and rain. Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Koraput, Rayagada, Gajapati and Ganjam are likely to receive comparatively higher rainfall.

The IMD has also forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in Kalahandi, Rayagada, Ganjam and Gajapati on September 21 and 22.

The district-wise warnings have been issued based on the rainfall activity expected during the period, the weather department said.

Odisha Records 21% Above-Normal Rainfall

Odisha has recorded 1,269.7 mm of rainfall between June 1 and Wednesday, which is 21 per cent above the normal rainfall received during the corresponding period.

However, rainfall remains deficient in Gajapati and Nabarangpur districts despite the overall State receiving above-normal monsoon rainfall.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda