- Odisha recorded 1,453 mm rainfall between June and September 25, around 29% above normal.
- The region experienced an unusually large number of atmospheric systems, including 11 over the Bay of Bengal.
- Repeated rain has reduced recovery time between successive weather systems.
Why Flood Risk Is High
- At least 60 locations received >100 mm rainfall in 24 hours.
- Saturated soil + limited local storage → increased surface runoff.
- Swollen rivers increase downstream flood risks, including in Bhadrak and Jajpur.
- Landslides are a concern in hilly areas.
Geographical Vulnerability
- Southern Odisha is predominantly highland, with greater slope-failure risks.
- The coast consists of multiple deltas and low-gradient depositional plains, making drainage into the sea difficult.
- This combination increases vulnerability to waterlogging and flooding.
Emerging Climate Concern
- A study by Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology, using 1901–2020 data, reported increasing occurrence of maximum one-day and five-day rainfall bursts, even as the frequency of heavy-rain days declined.
- The article links climate change with more prolonged monsoon withdrawal and intense rainfall events.
Gaps & Way Forward
CAG had flagged drainage design and maintenance deficiencies in 2024.
- Recurrent waterlogging in urban centres and disruption of highways and railway networks indicate infrastructure vulnerabilities.
- Odisha needs to shift from preparing for isolated seasonal anomalies towards planning for repeated intense downpours.
- Strengthen drainage, infrastructure resilience, flood forecasting, evacuation systems and urban planning.
🔆 MUST REMEMBER
Rainfall → 1,453 mm | 29% excess
Bay of Bengal systems → 11
60+ locations → >100 mm/day
High-risk areas → Bhadrak, Jajpur + hilly regions
Key factors → Saturated soil + runoff + deltaic coast
Long-term concern → Intense rainfall bursts + climate change
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