Fresh Bay System Raises Cyclone Concerns in Flood-Hit Odisha

The onset of October has revived concerns over cyclone activity in Odisha, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting the formation of a fresh low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal as the southwest monsoon withdraws.

October is considered a sensitive period for Odisha, with several major cyclones historically developing during the post-monsoon season. The possibility of a fresh weather system has raised concerns as the state continues to grapple with the impact of months of flooding and excess rainfall.

Odisha Battling Prolonged Flood Crisis

Odisha recorded its highest monsoon rainfall since 2000 this year, with cumulative rainfall around 29% above normal by the end of September. Repeated swelling of rivers including the Mahanadi, Baitarani, Brahmani, Rushikulya and Budhabalanga has triggered widespread flooding.

According to Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, floods have affected 28 districts, while more than 2.37 lakh people have been evacuated to safer locations in recent weeks.

Large tracts of farmland in Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Mayurbhanj, Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput and Malkangiri have remained submerged, causing extensive crop damage.

Saturated Soil Adds to Risk

Although Odisha has strengthened its disaster-response mechanism over the years, prolonged rainfall has left the soil saturated and vulnerable. Authorities have kept cyclone shelters, ODRAF, NDRF and Fire Services on alert.

Officials and weather experts are particularly concerned about the impact of strong winds and heavy rain on already weakened infrastructure, with risks including tree uprooting, landslides and further waterlogging.

The agricultural sector faces an additional threat, with the standing paddy crop already affected by flooding. Any further spell of heavy rain and strong winds could worsen crop losses.

Meteorologists, however, say it is too early to determine the system’s exact track or intensity. Weather conditions over the Bay of Bengal are being closely monitored, with authorities and residents advised to remain vigilant as the situation evolves.