Odisha disaster management teams are put on high alert as a possible cyclonic storm developing over the Bay of Bengal is likely to hit the state with heavy rain and wind from October 27. While the cyclone is not likely to directly strike Odisha, the state has geared up for probable flooding, swelling of rivers, and power outages due to heavy showers.
Odisha Fully Prepared For Cyclonic Storm, Says Minister
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari assured that Odisha is prepared to meet the situation. He confirmed that key departments, such as Health, Water Resources, Energy, and Agriculture, have been directed to ensure preventive action and remain on stand-by. “Odisha is extremely prone to natural disasters like heavy rain, flooding, river overflow, and cyclones. We are getting ready for an incoming cyclonic storm that is forecasted to strike its coast on the 22 or 29. Departments like Health, Water Resources, Energy, and Agriculture are all ready. Local Administrations in Odisha, particularly the vulnerable regions, have arrangements for relief camps, evacuation, and distribution of necessary items. We request people not to panic as we are well prepared,” said Pujari.
Cyclone Formation and Predictions
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicated that a low-pressure system has formed over the southeast Bay of Bengal on October 24. It is likely to become a depression by October 25, a deep depression by October 26, and a cyclonic storm by October 27, heading towards the Andhra Pradesh coast. IMD authorities forecast coastal and southern districts of Odisha to see heavy to very heavy rainfall from October 27-29. The department has released a yellow alert over the state.
Strong Winds and Rainfall Expected
Squally weather with wind at a speed of 40–50 kmph, rising to 60 kmph, is anticipated along the south Odisha coast from October 27. IMD Bhubaneswar Director Manorama Mohanty assured that the Bay of Bengal system is intensifying and may become a full-fledged cyclone at any time.
“A low-pressure area is developed south of the Bay of Bengal. It is likely to develop into a depression over the southeast and the adjoined Bay of Bengal on October 25. It will also intensify further into a deep depression on October 26 and into a cyclonic storm on October 27. Odisha is also expected to witness heavy rainfall activity on 27, 28 and 29 October. Fishermen should not go to the sea from 26th onwards.” she said.
Precautionary Measures and Fishermen’s Advisory
In response to the IMD warning, fishing activities in Thoothukudi have been suspended. Fishermen at sea have been instructed to return to shore, and those already docked are advised to stay put. Authorities have also urged people living in coastal regions to remain indoors, avoid venturing near the seashore, and stay updated with cyclone alerts from the IMD. Odisha’s early precautions are indicative of its history of handling intense weather conditions, as authorities prepare for another possible cyclone developing in the Bay of Bengal.
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