Fresh low-pressure area in Bay of Bengal, IMD issues red warning of heavy rainfall in Odisha

The India Meteorological Department has issued a red warning for extremely heavy rainfall in parts of Odisha due to a fresh low-pressure area formed in the Bay of Bengal. The advisory advises fishermen not to venture into the sea along and off the coasts of West Bengal, Bangladesh, Odisha, and North Andhra Pradesh from August 16 to 18.

Six districts in Odisha are facing flood conditions, with around one lakh people evacuated to relief centers. The previous low-pressure area formed on August 12 and intensified into a depression, causing heavy rain and floods in northern districts. The IMD predicts some parts of Odisha may receive over 20 cm of rain within 24 hours.

A fresh low-pressure area is expected to move northwestward and become more marked in the next 24 hours, leading to squally weather with wind speeds of 40-50 kmph and gusts up to 60 kmph. The state government has put all district collectors on alert, and urban authorities are directed to remain on high alert, ensuring a prompt and coordinated response to any emerging situation.