Deep Depression to Hit Odisha Coast: IMD Warns of Extremely Heavy Rainfall Across South Odisha
Bhubaneswar: Odisha is bracing for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall as a depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a deep depression and move towards the north Andhra Pradesh–south Odisha coast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for intense rainfall, thunderstorms and squally weather in several parts of the state.
Deep Depression Likely to Cross Odisha Coast
According to the IMD, the depression over the west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a deep depression within the next 24 hours. The system is expected to move west-northwestwards and cross the north Andhra Pradesh–south Odisha coast between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur during the night of September 23 and early hours of September 24.
The weather system was located around 310 km southeast of Puri and Gopalpur in Odisha in the latest IMD bulletin.
Extremely Heavy Rainfall Warning
The IMD has forecast extremely heavy rainfall over Odisha on September 23 and 24, with very heavy rainfall also likely on September 25. Heavy rainfall is expected to continue in parts of the state on September 26.
Southern and coastal districts are expected to experience the strongest impact of the system. Areas including Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Kandhamal and neighbouring districts may receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall during the peak period.
Risk of Waterlogging and Localised Flooding
The intense rainfall may lead to waterlogging, temporary flooding, landslides in vulnerable areas and disruption to road communication, particularly in hilly and low-lying regions.
The Odisha government has already reviewed preparedness measures. Officials have been directed to keep cyclone and flood shelters ready and remain prepared for evacuation, rescue and relief operations if required.
Fishermen Advised to Remain Cautious
With the system moving towards the coast, sea conditions are expected to become rough to very rough in affected areas. Squally winds are also likely along the coastal belt.
Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea during the period of adverse weather, while residents in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas are advised to closely follow official weather and administration updates.
No Cyclone Forecast at Present
The present system is being described by the IMD as a deep depression, and the current forecast does not indicate that it will become a cyclone before crossing the coast. However, weather conditions can change, so people are advised to rely on updates from the IMD and local authorities.
Odisha on High Alert
With the system expected to affect the state from September 23–24, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. People, especially those living in vulnerable and low-lying areas, are advised to remain alert and take necessary precautions as rainfall activity intensifies.
The IMD has urged people to follow official weather warnings and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of extremely heavy rainfall.
