Odisha Braces for Deep Depression, Evacuations Ordered as Thunderstorms Loom

Odisha is bracing for a deep depression that is expected to cross the state's coast between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur. This prompted authorities to evacuate people to safer ground and close schools in 12 districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorms and heavy rain to very heavy rain in the state's Kalahandi.

Nabarangpur, Koraput, and Malkangiri districts as the deep depression passes close to Andhra Pradesh's Kalingapatnam village by Wednesday night.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has directed his administration to evacuate people to safer ground. With at least 33 teams of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) deployed in various districts. In addition to schools and anganwadis, authorities have also ordered the closure of schools in vulnerable areas.

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This includes North Andhra Pradesh, where the deep depression is expected to make landfall. The administration is also keeping emergency hotlines functional and manned 24x7, with shelters on standby to accommodate those in need.

Severe thunderstorms, accompanied by flashes of lightning and intense gusts, are forecast to hit specific regions, with wind speeds reaching 50-60 kmph. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued warnings for localized flooding in low-lying areas and the closure of urban underpasses.

In South Odisha, the districts of Bargarh, Subarnapur, Boudh, Nuapada, Balangir, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khordha, and Nayagarh are on high alert, with authorities urging residents to take necessary precautions.

As the region braces itself for potential flooding, authorities are urging a multi-faceted response to mitigate the impact. In preparation, teams of emergency responders have been mobilized, equipped with life-saving gear, including life jackets. The water resources department is tasked with closely monitoring river levels and reservoir capacities.

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Meanwhile, district officials are being advised to inspect vulnerable embankments and coordinate with authorities to ensure controlled water releases, should the need arise. In North Andhra Pradesh, the districts of Suresh Pujari are also on high alert, with authorities taking measures to prevent landslides, mudslides, landslips, and land subsidence.

The deep depression is expected to bring heavy rain to the region, triggering landslides, mudslides, landslips, and land subsidence. Meanwhile, communication lines are expected to be affected. Reports of mudslides and damage to trees have already been reported from districts such as Ganjam and Gajapati.

This highlights the need for caution and preparedness.