IMD issues red warning for six districts for September 23-24
Global Times News | INDIA ; GTNS
SEPTEMBER 21, 2026 , BHUBANESWAR: Odisha is preparing for another spell of intense rainfall as a weather system over the Bay of Bengal is expected to strengthen and move closer to the state’s coast.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red warning for extremely heavy rainfall in six districts — Kandhamal, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Kalahandi and Rayagada — for September 23 and 24.
The weather system, which originated as a low-pressure area over the north Andaman Sea, has moved into the Bay of Bengal and is expected to intensify into a deep depression before approaching the Odisha coast around September 23.
The IMD has also issued an orange warning covering 16 districts for heavy to very heavy rainfall during the period beginning September 22. Other parts of the state have also been placed under rainfall alerts.
Coastal conditions are another concern. Squally winds of 55-65 kmph, gusting up to 75 kmph, are expected along and off the south Odisha and north Andhra Pradesh coasts from September 23 into September 24, according to the weather warning.
The system’s eventual intensity remains under observation. While the current forecast points to a deep depression, weather models and subsequent observations will determine whether further strengthening occurs.
With heavy rain expected across several districts, the coming days will require close monitoring of rainfall, wind and local water levels, particularly in vulnerable areas.
Global Times News | INDIA ; GTNS NEWS DESK
SEPTEMBER 21, 2026