By Imteshal Karim
Widespread rainfall continued across most parts of Odisha on Saturday as the southwest monsoon remained active over the state as per the latest report from the India Meteorological Department IMD.
The IMD has further predicted that wet weather conditions are likely to prevail on Sunday. As such it has issued an orange warning for Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts forecasting very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in some areas accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds.
A yellow warning has also been issued for 17 other districts where moderate rainfall with lightning and winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 km/h are expected over the next 24 hours.
Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Forecast
According to the IMD Odisha is under the influence of a deep monsoon trough bringing dense cloud cover and intermittent rainfall.
The heaviest impact is likely in parts of north and central Odisha where weather conditions may disrupt transportation and pose localised flood risks particularly in low-lying areas.
The alert for Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj cautions of isolated downpours with thunder and lightning especially during the afternoon and evening hours. Notably these districts are already saturated from previous rain spells increasing the vulnerability of waterlogging and flash floods.
Low Pressure Likely to Form Over Gangetic Bengal
The weather department has also signalled the potential formation of a low-pressure system over Gangetic West Bengal and adjoining areas within the next 12 hours.
While its trajectory and intensity are still under observation officials have not ruled out its influence on Odisharsquos weather in the coming days. If the system intensifies eastern and coastal Odisha may see prolonged rainfall and increased wind activity early next week.