Bhubaneswar: After days of relentless rainfall that triggered flood-like conditions across several parts of Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a temporary respite, with no significant rainfall expected in the state over the next three days.
Dr. Manorama Mohanty, Director of the Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, said rainfall activity has declined over the upper catchment areas and is likely to remain subdued until August 2. She added that rainfall may resume after August 2.
“The upper catchment areas are witnessing a reduction in rainfall, which is expected to improve the flood situation gradually. The flood threat in the Baitarani river is also receding and the situation is likely to improve by Friday,” Dr. Mohanty said.
However, the flood situation in the Mahanadi basin continues to remain under close watch. Officials expect the water discharge at Mundali barrage to reach 9 lakh cusecs by Thursday evening. According to Dr. Mohanty, the drainage system in the downstream areas remains capable of handling the expected flow.
She also informed that two breaches have been reported in Jajpur district, where floodwaters have affected several low-lying areas.
The State has been battling flood-like conditions following continuous heavy rainfall over the past few days. The Mahanadi has witnessed a sharp rise in water levels due to inflows from its tributaries, including the Tel, Ib, and Jira rivers, raising concerns in downstream districts.
According to official data, the Hirakud Dam water level has risen to 617.43 feet. The reservoir is currently receiving an inflow of 331,063 cusecs of water per second, while 64,109 cusecs is being released downstream through two open gates.
Further downstream, all 10 gates of the Mundali barrage have been opened to regulate the increasing flow. More than 8 lakh cusecs of water is currently passing through the barrage every second, with the discharge expected to touch 9 lakh cusecs later in the day.
Authorities continue to monitor river levels closely, while district administrations remain on alert despite the improving weather outlook. Officials hope that the anticipated dry spell over the next three days will help floodwaters recede and ease the situation in the affected districts.