Heavy Rains Batter Odisha as Low-Pressure System Deepens; Schools Shut in Malkangiri
Bhubaneswar, Sept 26: A fresh low-pressure system over the east-central Bay of Bengal has triggered widespread heavy rainfall across Odisha, prompting school closures and emergency alerts in several districts.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts the system will intensify into a depression by evening and cross the south Odisha–north Andhra Pradesh coast within 24 hours.
Southern and coastal districts, including Koraput, Malkangiri, Rayagada, and Ganjam, are experiencing relentless downpours accompanied by gusty winds reaching up to 60 kmph.
The IMD has issued an Orange Alert for Koraput and Malkangiri, warning of very heavy rainfall and potential disruption to daily life.
In response, all schools in Malkangiri have been closed for the day. District administrations have activated control rooms and deployed disaster response teams to vulnerable areas.
Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea due to rough conditions and high waves.
Rainfall is expected to persist for the next three days, with the most intense spells forecasted for southern Odisha.
The IMD has also flagged the risk of flooding, waterlogging, and transport disruptions in low-lying regions.
As the depression nears landfall, residents are urged to stay indoors and follow official advisories to ensure safety.
