Bhubaneswar, Odisha: The flood situation in Odisha has worsened, with rising river levels and continuous rainfall affecting thousands of families across
the state. According to the latest update from the Office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), flooding has impacted six districts, 44 blocks, 233 gram panchayats and 748 villages, disrupting daily life and prompting large-scale evacuations. Official data shows that more than 2.03 lakh people have been affected, while several low-lying areas remain submerged as authorities closely monitor the evolving situation. Mayurbhanj is the worst-affected district, with flooding reported in 13 blocks, followed by Balasore (12), Dhenkanal (8), Bhadrak (5), and Jajpur and Sambalpur with three blocks each. Swelling rivers, particularly the Baitarani, have inundated villages, agricultural fields and road networks in several regions. The floods have also claimed lives. The SRC confirmed that four people died in Dhenkanal district in flood-related incidents, while reports from other affected areas are still being verified.
The Odisha government has stepped up rescue and evacuation efforts, shifting nearly 28,000 people from vulnerable areas to safer locations and temporary relief camps. Teams from the ODRAF, NDRF, Fire Services and local administration have been deployed across the affected districts to rescue stranded residents and provide emergency assistance.
Relief camps have been equipped with food, drinking water, medical aid, sanitation facilities and other essential supplies. Officials are also arranging fodder for livestock and keeping a close watch on embankments that remain vulnerable to breaches.
The state government has instructed district administrations to stay on high alert and continuously monitor river levels as heavy rainfall persists in several areas. Rescue agencies have been directed to respond swiftly to emergencies, while residents in flood-prone regions have been advised to avoid flooded roads and rivers and strictly follow official advisories. Authorities say the coming hours will be crucial as the state continues to battle the worsening flood situation.
