Bhubaneswar: A fresh weather system developing over the Bay of Bengal is set to bring widespread heavy rainfall across large parts of Odisha, according to a bulletin released by the Centre for Environment and Climate at Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University in Bhubaneswar.
An existing cyclonic circulation currently positioned over coastal West Bengal and the adjoining Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a low pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal, near coastal West Bengal and northern coastal Odisha.
Meteorologists project that this system will trigger moderate to heavy downpours between July 25 and July 28, with severe spells of heavy to very heavy precipitation likely in isolated parts of northern and western Odisha. The primary concern for regional authorities is the potential impact on major river basins.
Catchment areas of the Brahmani, Baitarani, Subarnarekha, Budhabalanga, and Mahanadi rivers are expected to receive significant rainfall. A total of twenty districts are likely to experience rainfall from this system, including Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Dhenkanal, Sundargarh, Deogarh, Angul, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Khurda, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Nayagarh, Sonepur, Boudh, and Balangir.
Monsoon systems forming over the Bay of Bengal during late July frequently channel heavy moisture inland, increasing the risk of localized waterlogging in low-lying urban areas and agricultural fields.
Local district administration offices in vulnerable river basins are routinely monitored during such spells to manage sudden surges in river water levels and ensure flood preparedness.
Fishermen along the northern Odisha coast are generally advised to exercise caution and avoid venturing into deep sea waters when squally weather conditions and rough seas are anticipated near the coast.