Normal life across several parts of Odisha has been affected as heavy rainfall triggered by a deep depression over the northwest Bay of Bengal continues to lash the state. In view of the worsening weather conditions, authorities have ordered the closure of schools in Jagatsinghpur, Sonepur, Mayurbhanj, and Kendrapara districts on Monday to ensure the safety of students and staff.

The precautionary measure comes after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several regions of the state. The weather agency has issued a Red Alert for Sundargarh, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj districts, warning of intense rainfall that could lead to waterlogging, flash floods, and disruption of normal life. Officials have also indicated that the weather system is likely to continue influencing the state over the next 24 hours.
District administrations announced the closure of educational institutions after continuous rainfall and IMD advisories highlighted the possibility of severe weather conditions. The decision aims to prevent students from travelling during adverse weather and reduce the risk of rain-related accidents.
Schools in Jagatsinghpur, Sonepur, Mayurbhanj, and Kendrapara will remain closed for the day, while authorities are closely monitoring the situation before taking further decisions on reopening educational institutions.
According to the IMD, the deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is moving towards the Odisha coast, bringing widespread rainfall accompanied by strong winds in several districts.
The latest weather warnings include:
The IMD has advised residents in vulnerable areas to stay indoors whenever possible and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall.
The continuous downpour has disrupted normal life in many parts of Odisha. Waterlogging has been reported in low-lying areas, while road traffic has slowed due to poor visibility and inundated streets.
Rail services were also briefly affected in some regions because of the adverse weather conditions. Authorities are monitoring railway tracks, roads, and bridges to ensure passenger safety and minimize disruptions.
Local administrations have deployed disaster response teams and emergency personnel in vulnerable districts to respond quickly to any rain-related emergencies.
The Odisha government has placed its field machinery on high alert following the IMD forecast. District collectors, disaster management officials, municipal authorities, and emergency services have been instructed to remain prepared for any eventuality.
Officials are monitoring river levels, drainage systems, and flood-prone areas while coordinating with local agencies to provide timely assistance if required. Control rooms have also been activated to respond to emergency situations and ensure rapid communication across affected districts.
Authorities have urged people living in low-lying and flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow official advisories. Residents are advised to avoid crossing flooded roads, stay away from rivers and waterlogged areas, and keep track of the latest weather updates issued by the IMD and the Odisha government.
With heavy rainfall expected to continue over the next 24 hours, citizens are advised to prioritize safety and cooperate with local authorities until weather conditions improve.