Odisha Braces for Heavy Rain and Stormy Conditions as Depression Nears

Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning to fishermen along the Odisha coast as a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal transforms into a depression. According to IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the depression is expected to intensify into a deep depression off the Andhra Pradesh coast on November 16 and then move north-northeastwards, reaching the Odisha coast on November 17.

Mohapatra emphasized that the system will pass near the Odisha coast on the morning of November 17, bringing heavy rainfall to coastal districts on both November 16 and 17. Wind speeds are predicted to reach 50-60 kmph on November 17, with very rough sea conditions lasting until November 18. Fishermen are strongly advised not to venture into the sea until November 18, and those currently at sea should return to the coast by the evening.

The forecast for November 15 indicates squally weather with gusty surface winds of 45-55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph, over the Westcentral Bay of Bengal. On November 16-17, squally winds of 45-55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph, are expected along and off the Odisha coast, with higher speeds of 50-60 kmph, gusting to 70 kmph, over the Northwest and adjoining Westcentral Bay of Bengal. Similar conditions are anticipated on November 17-18.

The Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre issued a yellow warning for heavy rainfall in several Odisha districts, specifically Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, and Puri, which are likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall due to the approaching weather system. Fishermen are urged to exercise caution and adhere to the IMD’s warnings during the specified dates.