Rain Lashes Odisha as Low Pressure Intensifies into ‘Well-Marked System’

Heavy rain battered several parts of Odisha, including the state capital Bhubaneswar, on Friday as a low pressure area in the Bay of Bengal intensified into a well-marked low pressure system. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the system may strengthen further into a depression within the next 24 hours.

According to the IMD’s morning bulletin, the system is likely to move west-northwestwards and cross the south Odisha–north Andhra Pradesh coasts on the morning of September 27. Under its influence, widespread rainfall accompanied by gusty winds is expected across coastal and southern Odisha districts.

The Odisha government has already placed the administration on high alert. District collectors have been directed to closely monitor the situation, ensure readiness of disaster response teams, and keep cyclone and flood shelters prepared for emergencies.

Fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea due to rough conditions, while those already in deep sea areas have been urged to return immediately.

Officials said heavy to very heavy rainfall may trigger localized flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas, particularly in urban pockets of Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Ganjam, Gajapati, and adjoining districts.

The Special Relief Commissioner’s office has also asked departments like energy, rural development, and urban local bodies to remain fully prepared to address possible power disruptions, road blockages, and drainage issues.

With the system expected to make landfall on Saturday morning, authorities have urged people to remain alert and follow advisories issued by the IMD and state government.