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Odisha Floods Worsen as New Low-Pressure System Forms
16 Aug
Summary
- Odisha faces floods in six districts, displacing nearly one lakh people.
- A new low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal prompts a red alert for heavy rainfall.
- Fishermen are warned against venturing into the sea from August 16 to 18.
Odisha is currently experiencing a significant flood crisis in six of its districts, with approximately 2.70 lakh people affected in 503 villages. Around one lakh residents have been moved to relief centers due to submerged homes. The situation is particularly grim in Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar, where rivers like Baitarani and Brahmani have overflowed.
Adding to the concern, a fresh low-pressure area has developed over the northwest and adjoining West Bengal-North Odisha coasts in the Bay of Bengal. The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert, predicting extremely heavy rainfall, potentially exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours for some areas. This system is expected to move northwestward and intensify over the next 24 hours.
Authorities have placed all district collectors on high alert, with urban officials directed to ensure prompt and coordinated responses. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea along and off the coast of West Bengal, Odisha, and North Andhra Pradesh from August 16 to August 18 due to anticipated squally weather. While water levels in some rivers are receding, officials remain vigilant due to the formation of the new low-pressure system.
