The Mayurbhanj district administration has issued a flood alert for Baripada and surrounding areas as major rivers continue to swell due to ongoing monsoon rains. The State Flood Cell in the Department of Water Resources is maintaining round-the-clock monitoring as water levels reach critical thresholds across multiple river systems.

Rivers Breach Danger Levels

Peak flood is expected in Subarnarekha at 11.25 metres at midnight, in Budhabalanga at 8.20 metres at 9am Monday and in Jalaka at 6.82 metres at 6pm Sunday, according to official reports from the water resources department. The three major rivers flowing through the region have all crossed their warning levels, prompting authorities to initiate emergency protocols.

The Budhabalanga River, which flows near Baripada town, poses particular concern for local residents and businesses. Historical flood patterns in the region show that when this river system exceeds 8 metres, low-lying areas typically experience significant waterlogging and potential evacuation scenarios.

Emergency Preparedness Measures

District collectors across Balasore and Mayurbhanj have been placed on high alert as meteorological departments forecast continued heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. The administration has activated all flood response teams and established communication networks with village-level disaster management committees.

Local authorities have begun preliminary assessments of vulnerable areas, including schools, healthcare facilities, and residential zones that historically face flooding challenges. Emergency shelters are being prepared in government buildings and community centers across Baripada subdivision.

Monsoon Impact on Regional Activities

Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Mayurbhanj district will shut its gates to visitors starting July 1 due to the monsoon season, highlighting how the current weather conditions are affecting various sectors beyond flood management. The closure represents standard monsoon precautions taken by forest departments during periods of heavy rainfall.

Agricultural communities in the region are closely monitoring water levels as excessive flooding could impact kharif crop cultivation. Farmers have been advised to take necessary precautions for livestock and stored grain in areas prone to waterlogging.

Historical Context and Preparedness

Baripada has experienced significant flooding events in previous years, particularly during cyclonic weather systems. The region's topography, with multiple river confluences and low-lying areas, makes it susceptible to rapid water accumulation during intense monsoon periods.

The current flood alert comes as part of enhanced early warning systems implemented by Odisha's disaster management authorities. These systems utilize real-time river gauge monitoring, weather forecasting, and community-based reporting to provide timely alerts to residents.

Safety Guidelines for Residents

Citizens in flood-prone areas have been advised to:

• Monitor official weather updates and flood warnings
• Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall periods
• Keep emergency supplies readily available
• Follow evacuation instructions if issued by authorities
• Stay away from swollen rivers and waterlogged roads

The situation remains dynamic with continuous monitoring by state and district administration teams. Updates will be provided as water levels and weather conditions evolve over the coming days.