Bhubaneswar, 28 July (H.S.): Several districts across Odisha witnessed intense rainfall over the past 24 hours, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reporting heavy to extremely heavy showers in multiple regions till 8:30 AM on Tuesday.

According to data released by the Meteorological Centre, Bhubaneswar, Balasore district recorded the highest rainfall at 246.6 mm, making it the worst-affected area. Other regions also experienced significant precipitation, including Nilgiri (239.0 mm), Jajpur (236.8 mm), and Remuna (222.0 mm).

In addition, several stations in Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, and Sundargarh districts reported very heavy rainfall during the same period.

The IMD classified the rainfall intensity as extremely heavy at five stations, very heavy at 24 stations, and heavy at 60 stations across the state. The ongoing weather conditions are attributed to a deep depression that recently crossed the Odisha–West Bengal coast and is currently moving inland.

The relentless downpour has led to flood-like situations in several areas. In Balasore district, the Jalaka River has crossed the danger mark, inundating hundreds of hectares of agricultural land in Basta and Sadar blocks.

Waterlogging has been reported in low-lying areas of Balasore town and other districts, severely disrupting normal life and vehicular movement. Authorities have placed district administrations on high alert in view of the likelihood of further rainfall.

Residents have been advised to avoid low-lying and flood-prone areas and strictly adhere to safety guidelines issued by local authorities.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda