Flash Flood Alert Issued for Four Odisha Districts; Residents Urged to Stay Vigilant

Bhubaneswar, August 13: The Odisha Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) has issued an urgent advisory warning of a high possibility of sudden flash floods in several parts of Angul, Deogarh, Sambalpur, and Sundargarh districts within the next six hours. The warning comes amid intense rainfall and worsening weather conditions across western and northern Odisha.

According to the SRC, residents living in low-lying areas, riverbanks, streams, and flood-prone regions have been advised to remain on high alert and avoid unnecessary movement. Local administrations have also been asked to closely monitor the situation and remain prepared for any emergency response.

Flash floods can develop rapidly due to heavy rainfall, causing a sudden rise in water levels in rivers, streams, and drainage channels. Such floods often leave little time for evacuation and can disrupt transportation, damage infrastructure, and pose serious risks to life and property.

Authorities have urged people to:

– Stay away from flooded roads, rivers, and bridges.
– Avoid crossing overflowing streams or waterlogged areas.
– Follow official advisories issued by the district administration and disaster management authorities.
– Keep emergency supplies and important documents ready if evacuation becomes necessary.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also forecast extremely heavy rainfall over parts of Odisha, increasing the risk of flash floods and waterlogging in vulnerable areas.

The SRC has appealed to the public not to panic but to remain cautious and cooperate with local authorities until the weather situation improves. Emergency response teams and district officials are keeping a close watch on developments to ensure prompt action if required.