Odisha on high alert as cyclone threat looms; schools, colleges shut in five districts

Odisha is on high alert as a cyclone threat looms, with schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in five southern districts closing on October 28 and 29. The state has raised the alert level after the India Meteorological Department predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds of 80-90 kmph. The low-pressure area is expected to intensify into a deep depression over the next 24 hours before potentially becoming a cyclonic storm, moving towards the Andhra Pradesh coast.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has reviewed the preparedness, emphasizing the need to avoid casualties and draw on past experiences. The government has directed officials to identify vulnerable areas and prepare cyclone and flood shelters. At least 60 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force teams, 17 National Disaster Response Force teams and 225 fire service teams have been mobilized for relief and rescue operations.

Fishermen have been warned against going to sea, and health centres in affected areas are to ensure adequate supplies of essential medicines and medical kits. The government has also asked engineering departments to prepare for rapid restoration work, such as clearing fallen trees from roads. With the harvesting season underway, the chief minister has advised officials to raise awareness among farmers about safely storing their crops.