Heavy downpour forecast for Odisha

Heavy downpour forecast was issued for Odisha after more than 12 hour-spell of incessant rain unleashed many parts of the state as a well marked low pressure over Northwest Bay of Bengal intensified into a depression yesterday.

Under its influence, heavy rain is continuing at most places of the state since last night.

The local Met office said the well marked low pressure area intensified into a depression last afternoon and was centered at east-northeast of Balasore will cause heavy rainfall at most places of Odisha today.

It also said gusty surface wind with speed reaching 45 to 50 kmph and gusting up to 60 kmph may prevail along and off Odisha coast.

The fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the sea.

As the state is receiving continuous rain since past several days, the Hirakud Dam authorities have opened 18 sluice gates to manage the flood water coming from Chhattisgarh.