Bhubaneswar, 16 August (H.S.) : A low-pressure area has formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal off the West Bengal and Odisha coasts, bringing the possibility of intensified rainfall across several parts of Odisha.

Weather scientist Umashankar Dash said the system has developed under the influence of an active cyclonic circulation and is likely to move northwards during the next 24 hours, with the possibility of further intensification.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj and Balasore today. A Red Warning has been issued for Mayurbhanj and Balasore, indicating the likelihood of very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and possible waterlogging.

An Orange Warning has been issued for Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Cuttack and Kendrapara for heavy to very heavy rainfall, while a Yellow Warning remains in force for other districts.

Coastal areas are likely to experience winds of 30–40 kmph. The Meteorological Centre has advised fishermen against venturing into the sea and urged residents in warning districts to remain alert to waterlogging, traffic disruption and possible landslides in vulnerable areas.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda