Bhubaneswar, Sept. 1 (UDN): Odisha has received 25 per cent more rainfall than normal during the southwest monsoon so far, reaching its seasonal rainfall benchmark well before the monsoon concludes, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

By August 31, the state had recorded 1,154.3 mm of rainfall, effectively meeting its normal monsoon quota nearly a month ahead of schedule.

North Odisha likely to remain wetter

IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said rainfall patterns in September are expected to vary across the state. While northern Odisha is likely to receive normal to above-normal rainfall, southern districts may experience below-normal precipitation during the month.

He said the continued formation and movement of low-pressure systems over the region are expected to keep rainfall activity active across Odisha through September.

Flood-prone areas remain on alert

The monsoon has already brought several spells of heavy rain this season, leading to flooding, waterlogging and rising river levels in multiple districts. Low-lying and flood-prone areas have been particularly affected as major rivers swelled following repeated downpours.

With additional rainfall forecast in the coming weeks, authorities are expected to closely monitor vulnerable river basins, especially in northern Odisha.

Odisha stands out nationally

While the IMD has projected below-normal rainfall for India as a whole in September, Odisha has emerged as a notable exception this monsoon, having already recorded 25 per cent excess rainfall compared to its seasonal average.

The latest forecast indicates that the state’s northern belt could continue to receive significant rainfall even as monsoon activity begins to ease across several other parts of the country.