Bay of Bengal Depression: IMD Issues Red Alerts for South Odisha Districts
Bhubaneswar, Sept 21: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts in southern Odisha as a depression over the Bay of Bengal intensifies and moves towards landfall.
The system, located southeast of Puri and Gopalpur, is expected to strengthen into a deep depression and cross the coast between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur late on September 23 or early September 24.
Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecast for Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, and adjoining districts, with red alerts in place from September 23–25.
Squally winds reaching 55–65 kmph, gusting to 75 kmph, are likely along the Odisha–Andhra coast.
Fishermen have been advised to return to shore immediately, and cautionary signals have been hoisted at all ports.
The IMD has warned of potential damage to plantations, uprooting of trees, waterlogging in low‑lying areas, and disruption to transport.
Residents are urged to stay indoors during peak rainfall, avoid flood‑prone roads, and follow safety advisories.
