The Odisha government has announced the closure of all government and private schools, as well as Anganwadi centres, in 12 out of the 30 districts due to heavy rainfall caused by a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal.
The districts of Keonjhar, Balangir, Kalahandi, Sonepur, Sambalpur, Dhenkanal, Mayurbhanj, Angul, Boud, Nayagarh, Balasore, and Nuapada have already shut down schools and Anganwadi centres. District collectors have the authority to decide further closures if necessary.
In the past 24 hours, Odisha has received an average of 83.8 mm of rainfall, with the Boudh block in Boudh district receiving the highest at 390.6 mm, leading to flash-flood-like conditions.
Four blocks have recorded over 300 mm of rainfall, 17 blocks over 200 mm, and 68 blocks between 100 mm and 200 mm. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts heavy rainfall in the next 48 hours, prompting the state’s special relief commissioner to assess the situation.
Precautionary measures are being taken in districts likely to be affected, with the fire services deploying teams for search and rescue operations. Evacuations, food, water, and medical supplies are being provided to those in need.
To address the disrupted transportation due to the heavy rain, authorities are regulating vehicular traffic on submerged roads. ODRAF and NDRF teams are being deployed for rescue operations in various districts.
A red warning has been issued for heavy rainfall in specific districts, with potential risks of flash floods, landslides, and damage to infrastructure. The IMD advises caution and preparedness for potential risks.
