Odisha, Andhra On High Alert As Deep Depression Nears Coast, Heavy Rain To Peak On Sept 23-24

Odisha and Andhra Pradesh are bracing for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal moves towards the coast, with Telangana also likely to receive heavy rain as the system moves inland.

The weather system began as a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal and gradually intensified as it moved west-northwestwards over warm waters carrying abundant moisture. Favourable atmospheric conditions helped it strengthen into a depression and then a deep depression, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The system is expected to intensify further and cross the north Andhra Pradesh-south Odisha coast between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur during the night of September 23 and early hours of September 24. The IMD has so far not forecast it to become a cyclone, with heavy rainfall, flooding and gusty winds expected to be the main threats.

Odisha is likely to see its worst weather on September 23-24, with extremely heavy rain expected in parts of the southern districts. Heavy rain is likely to continue on September 25, while rainfall activity is expected to gradually ease thereafter.

The state government has stepped up preparations, with cyclone and flood shelters kept ready and personnel and machinery deployed at strategic locations. Schools and Anganwadi centres have been closed in several vulnerable districts, while reservoir levels are being closely monitored. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea.

The IMD has issued red alerts for Ganjam, Gajapati and Koraput for September 23-24, while Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Koraput and Malkangiri are under red alert for September 24-25.

Andhra Pradesh is also facing a significant rainfall threat. Kakinada, Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru and Krishna are under red alert for September 23-24, with extremely heavy rain possible in parts of coastal Andhra. Strong winds and rough seas are also expected, prompting warnings to fishermen.

The system's effects will extend inland. Telangana is forecast to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, particularly on September 23-25, as the system weakens after moving inland.