The formation of a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal, centred 200 kms south-east of Gopalpur district on Thursday, has prompted the Orissa government to remain on high alert.
According to an Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast, the deep depression may intensify while crossing the Orissa coast between Paradip and Gopalpur near Puri in the midnight on Thursday.
Extremely heavy rains between 25 cms to 30 cms are predicted at different parts of the coastal and southern Orissa districts. It's likely that wind flow would gather a speed of 55 kms to 60 kms per hour in the coastal and southern districts in the state.
Special Relief Commissioner NK Sunderay told the
Hindustan Times
that the collectors in 10 districts have been asked to prepare emergency action plans (EAPs) to tackle the possible flash flood situation and for evacuation from vulnerable areas if necessary.
"The district control rooms have been asked to function round-the-clock and issue necessary warnings to the local fishermen and other people about the depression," Sunderay added.