Bhubaneswar(Odisha): Odisha is on alert as a developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm and move towards the north Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts around October 28, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The IMD has forecast that the system could strengthen over the next few days, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds and rough sea conditions to parts of the eastern coast. The Odisha government has begun precautionary measures, with disaster response teams and district administrations instructed to remain prepared.

However, the exact landfall location, intensity and potential impact of the system have not yet been confirmed. The situation is being closely monitored by weather officials.

Low-Pressure Area May Intensify Into Cyclonic Storm by October 26

According to the IMD's October 23 bulletin, a low-pressure area formed over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal on Friday morning.

The system is likely to intensify into a depression on October 24, strengthen into a deep depression on October 25 and potentially develop into a cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 26.

It is then expected to move west-northwestwards towards the north Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts over the following two days. The IMD has indicated that further updates will clarify the system's track and intensity as it develops.

Heavy to Extremely Heavy Rainfall Forecast in Odisha

The developing system is expected to increase rainfall activity across Odisha from October 26, with heavier rainfall possible over the following days.

According to the forecast information provided, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in parts of coastal Odisha on October 27, while extremely heavy rainfall is possible in some areas on October 28 and 29.

The supplied report also mentions a red warning for Puri, Ganjam and Gajapati districts for October 27. Residents should check the latest district-wise IMD bulletin, as warning levels and affected areas may change with updated forecasts.

Heavy rainfall could lead to waterlogging, localised flooding and disruption to transport, depending on the system's eventual track and intensity.

Winds Likely to Strengthen as System Develops

The IMD has warned that wind speeds over the Bay of Bengal could increase as the weather system intensifies.

According to the forecast shared by IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, winds could reach 70–80 kmph, with gusts up to 90 kmph, by the morning of October 26 over the affected sea area. Wind conditions may strengthen further as the system approaches the coast.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the central and southeast Bay of Bengal during the specified warning period. Those at sea should follow the latest official instructions and return to shore as advised.

Odisha Government Steps Up Disaster Preparedness

Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the state government was closely monitoring the developing system and had begun preparations in advance.

The minister urged residents not to panic, noting that preparations were underway in coordination with the IMD and district administrations.

A high-level review involving the Chief Secretary, senior officials and Collectors from 16 districts was planned to assess preparedness and coordinate the response.

The administration is expected to monitor vulnerable areas and communicate important updates through official channels.

NDRF, ODRAF and Fire Services on Standby

As part of the preparedness measures outlined in the supplied information, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and fire services have been kept on standby.

District administrations have been instructed to maintain vigilance, while officials who were on leave have reportedly been directed to return to duty.

Shelter homes are being prepared with essential supplies, including food, drinking water and medicines. Authorities may undertake evacuations wherever necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the vulnerability of affected locations.

Arrangements have also reportedly been made for cattle feed and veterinary assistance to protect livestock during any adverse weather.

Fishermen and Coastal Residents Advised to Stay Alert

Fishermen have been advised to return to the coast by the deadline specified by the authorities and avoid venturing into warned sea areas.

People living in coastal and other vulnerable locations should follow official weather bulletins, local administration instructions and evacuation advisories. Residents should avoid spreading unverified messages about the cyclone's path or severity.

The government has appealed to people to cooperate with the administration and rely on information issued by the IMD and authorised disaster management agencies.

Exact Landfall Location Yet to Be Confirmed

Although the developing system may approach the north Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha coasts around October 28, the exact landfall point and intensity remain uncertain.

Weather officials will continue assessing the system as it strengthens over the Bay of Bengal. The forecast may be updated as new observations become available.

For now, Odisha remains on alert, with authorities preparing for the possibility of heavy rainfall, strong winds and other weather-related disruptions over the coming days.

Residents are advised to stay informed through official IMD bulletins and Odisha government advisories, and to follow instructions issued by local authorities.