Disaster management teams in Odisha are on high alert due to a cyclonic storm forming in the Bay of Bengal. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall to the state from October 27.
However, the cyclone is not expected to make a direct landfall in Odisha. Despite this, strong winds and heavy rainfall are anticipated. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari assured that the state is prepared for the approaching cyclonic storm. He stated that the health, water resources, energy, and agriculture departments have made preparations to handle the situation.
Suresh Pujari said, “Odisha is highly vulnerable to natural disasters such as heavy rainfall, floods, river surges, and cyclones. We are preparing for a potential cyclonic storm that may hit the coast on October 22 or 29. The health, water resources, energy, and agriculture departments are fully prepared. Local administrations in Odisha, especially in vulnerable areas, have arranged for relief centers, evacuations, and essential supplies. We appeal to the people to remain calm and not panic, as we are fully prepared.”
Likely to Intensify into a Cyclonic Storm
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) identified a low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal on October 24. This system is likely to intensify into a depression by October 25, a deep depression by October 26, and a cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal by October 27. Meteorologists predict that the storm will likely move towards the Andhra Pradesh coast. Heavy rainfall is expected in coastal and southern districts of Odisha from October 27 to 29. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for the entire state, with the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall in some areas. Strong winds of 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, are expected along the south Odisha coast from October 27.
