The Odisha government on Tuesday put all districts on high alert after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted that a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a well-marked system and further develop into a depression within the next 24 hours.

In a letter to all district collectors, the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) directed officials to remain fully prepared to tackle any eventuality. The SRC emphasized the need for “foolproof preparations,” including readiness of control rooms, communication systems, and emergency response teams to deal with possible heavy rainfall, flooding, or wind damage.

According to the IMD, the system, currently positioned over the central Bay of Bengal, is expected to move northwestwards towards the Odisha coast. Under its influence, several coastal and interior districts may experience moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by gusty winds in the coming days.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, and those already out have been urged to return to shore immediately. The state government has also instructed departments such as energy, water resources, and rural development to remain on standby to ensure prompt restoration of essential services in case of disruption.

October is historically known as a “cyclone month” for Odisha, and with back-to-back low-pressure systems predicted this season, the government has heightened surveillance and coordination among disaster management units. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will issue further advisories as the system evolves.