Bhubaneswar: Odisha is experiencing an active monsoon spell, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing alerts for continued heavy rainfall across several districts. The southwestern monsoon, which arrived significantly earlier this year on May 28th, continues to influence weather patterns, bringing much-needed relief from pre-monsoon heat but also posing challenges for daily life and ongoing festivities.
A low-pressure area over Jharkhand and its neighborhood, moving slowly west-northwestwards, is driving the current wet conditions. This system is anticipated to bring widespread rain and thundershowers to many parts of Odisha.
As of Thursday evening, many parts of Odisha are experiencing cloudy skies with intermittent rain. The twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack have been experiencing continuous heavy rainfall, leading to widespread waterlogging and disrupting daily life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted isolated heavy rain for several districts in Odisha, including Khurda (which covers Bhubaneswar) and Cuttack, over the next 24 hours.
Wednesday evening saw significant downpours in both cities, resulting in inundation of many low-lying areas. In Cuttack, prominent areas like Badambadi, OMP Square, Press Chowk, and roads near Kalyan Nagar and Railway Station Chowk were severely affected, with commuters and office-goers wading through knee-deep water. Shopkeepers in areas like Badambadi reported water entering their establishments and damaging goods.
Authorities in Cuttack have deployed emergency response teams and confirmed that 226 pumps are operational to manage the waterlogging. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions, especially with the ongoing active monsoon spell. The temperature in Bhubaneswar is currently around 26 degrees Celsius with high humidity and an 80% chance of precipitation, accompanied by wind speeds of 30-40 kmph.
The IMD has issued a yellow warning for these districts, indicating a high likelihood of severe weather conditions. The continuous rainfall is attributed to a low-pressure area over Jharkhand and its neighborhood, which is slowly moving west-northwestwards. Rourkela is witnessing light rain showers at 29°C.
The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for several districts, indicating the likelihood of moderate to heavy showers accompanied by lightning. Coastal districts have also been warned about rough sea conditions, and fishermen have been advised to suspend operations through midweek.
The ongoing annual Shree Jagannath Rath Jatra in Puri, a major religious festival attracting lakhs of devotees, is facing potential disruptions due to the persistent rainfall. Officials are concerned about slippery roads and flooded lanes, which could impede the movement of the chariots and the smooth conduct of the festivities. The Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) is on high alert, ensuring drainage systems are clear and emergency shelters are ready.
The IMD forecasts light to moderate rainfall with isolated heavy rainfall across Odisha for the next few days. Heavy rains are particularly expected in districts like Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, and Balasore. While the monsoon provides crucial support for agricultural activities, especially the Kharif cultivation, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions against waterlogging and potential localized flooding.