Cyclonic Circulation Triggers Heavy Rainfall Across Northern Odisha; IMD Issues Red Alert

Bhubaneswar, August 23(OT Webdesk) — A fresh low-pressure system over the northwest Bay of Bengal, influenced by cyclonic circulation near Gangetic West Bengal and Bangladesh, is set to bring widespread rainfall across Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported.

The weather system is expected to move toward Jharkhand within 24 hours, intensifying rain activity across northern districts.

The IMD has issued a Red Warning for Sundargarh, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated locations. Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sambalpur, and Jharsuguda are also likely to experience significant showers.

Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching 30–40 kmph are predicted in several regions. Authorities have urged residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas to remain vigilant.

Farmers are advised to suspend fieldwork during lightning activity, while fishermen should exercise caution due to gusty surface winds over inland water bodies.

Rainfall is expected to persist across the state until August 27, with IMD continuing to monitor the evolving weather pattern.