Odisha puts 11 districts on high alert as low-pressure system likely to intensify

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The Odisha government put 11 districts, mostly in the southern pockets, on high alert on Monday (September 21, 2026) for heavy to very heavy rain that is expected under the influence of a well-marked low pressure area which is likely to intensify further into a deep depression over west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal.

The India Meteorological Department predicted that the system would continue to move west-northwestwards and is likely to arrive near north Andhra Pradesh and the South Odisha coasts on the morning of September 23, 2026. Strong winds with speeds reaching 45-55 kmph are likely along the coast.

Chief Secretary Anu Garg chaired a high-level disaster preparedness meeting on Monday (September 21, 2026) and directed collectors to keep a close watch on the situation as it evolved across 11 districts. Kalinga Ghati, a crucial Ghat Road connecting Kandhamal district, has been closed for vehicular movement, due to the threat of landslides.

“There is currently no possibility of a cyclone. However, heavy rainfall triggered by the low-pressure system is likely in the southern districts. The State Government is closely monitoring the possibility of heavy rainfall in southern Odisha,” said Ms. Garg.

The Water Resources Department reviewed water levels in various reservoirs. Levels in the Balimela and Kolab reservoirs were normal with sufficient capacity to accommodate rainwater. However, since the Indravati reservoir was at around 84%, authorities have been asked to reduce water levels.

A 24-hour control room started functioning at the office of the Relief Commissioner who said instructions had been issued to check power supply and essential infrastructure in all cyclone- and storm-prone areas as part of preparedness to deal with the situation.

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