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

BHUBANESWAR

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

The India Meteorological Department has predicted that the system will continue to move west-northwest and is likely to arrive near North Andhra Pradesh and South Odisha coast on the morning of 23 September 2026. Strong winds of 45-55 kmph are likely to blow along the coast.

Chief Secretary Anu Garg on Monday (September 21, 2026) presided over a high-level disaster preparedness meeting and directed the Collectors to closely monitor the situation as it develops in 11 districts. Kalinga Ghati, the key Ghat road connecting Kandhamal district, has been closed for vehicular movement due to the threat of landslides.

“There is no possibility of a cyclone at present. However, heavy rainfall triggered by a low pressure system is likely in southern districts. The state government is keeping a close eye on the possibility of heavy rainfall in south Odisha,” Ms Garg said.

The water resources department checked the water levels in various reservoirs. Levels in Balimela and Kolab reservoirs were normal with sufficient capacity to capture rainwater. However, as the Indravati reservoir was at around 84%, the authorities were asked to lower the water level.

A 24-hour control center has started functioning at the Assistant Commissioner’s office, which said instructions have been issued to check power supply and basic infrastructure in all cyclone and storm-prone areas as part of preparedness to deal with the situation.

Published – 21 Sep 2026 22:21 IST