The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for parts of Odisha and West Bengal as heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected between August 1 to 2. Several other states, including Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram, Rajasthan, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Goa, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, have been issued an Orange alert. The IMD has advised people in these states to be prepared for possible flood-like situations and to avoid vulnerable structures.
Odisha experienced heavy rainfall as a well-marked low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal intensified into a depression and later into a deep depression on Tuesday, according to the IMD. The depression moved north-northwest wards at a speed of 25 kmph and lay centred around 160 km east-southeast of Khepupara in Bangladesh and 420 km east of Digha in West Bengal. The weather office warned of rough sea conditions and advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea till Wednesday afternoon.
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Under the impact of the deep depression, squally conditions with wind speeds of 45-55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, are likely to prevail along and off the Bangladesh-West Bengal coasts. The wind speed is expected to increase to 55-65 kmph, gusting to 75 kmph over the next 12 hours. As a result, the IMD issued a red warning (take action) for four districts and an orange warning (be prepared) for 13 districts in Odisha until 8.30 am on August 2. Additionally, a yellow warning (be updated) was issued for 10 districts.
With heavy rainfall and potential flooding expected in the affected states, authorities and residents are urged to take necessary precautions. People are advised to stay away from vulnerable structures, be prepared for transportation disruptions, and avoid venturing into the sea. It is essential for residents in the affected areas to closely monitor weather updates and follow the instructions issued by local authorities to ensure safety during this period of intense rainfall and potential floods.
The IMD’s issuance of red and orange alerts for 16 states, including Odisha and West Bengal, highlights the severity of the expected heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for residents and authorities to remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to mitigate the impact of the rainfall and potential flooding. Staying informed and prepared can help minimise risks and ensure the safety and well-being of communities in the affected regions.
