The meteorological department has yet to classify the developing system as a cyclone, but they are closely monitoring its trajectory and strength.

Bhubaneswar: A deep depression is projected to form over the Bay of Bengal, potentially impacting the northern Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha coasts.

Reports indicate that this weather system is likely to bring extensive rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds to Odisha over the next four days.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected from September 23 to 25, particularly affecting southern and southwestern Odisha, with some regions possibly receiving over 20 cm of rain.

An orange alert has been issued for 13 districts, including Baleshwar, Mayurbhanj, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Kataka, Puri, Khordha, Nayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri, effective from today until tomorrow morning.

Additionally, yellow warnings are in place for western districts such as Sambalpur, Sonpur, Boudh, Debagada, Anugola, Jharsuguda, Baragada, and Subarnapur, as well as Baleshwar, Bhadrak, and Nuapada.

From September 23-24, a red warning is in effect for Koraput, Gajapati, and Ganjam, while an orange warning covers Kataka, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khordha, Nayagada, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, and Malkangiri.

As the rain pattern shifts towards central Odisha from September 24-25, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Koraput, and Malkangiri will also face red warnings.

Wind speeds of 55-65 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 75 km/h, are anticipated along the coastline of south Odisha and north Andhra Pradesh. Fishermen are advised to refrain from venturing into the sea due to these conditions.

The expected heavy rainfall may result in waterlogging, localized flooding, landslides, fallen trees, and disruptions to power, communication, and transportation services.

The state government has instructed approximately 20 district collectors to maintain vigilance during this period.