Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has warned of a possible minor flood situation in parts of Jajpur and Bhadrak districts as the water level in the Baitarani River continues to rise following above-normal rainfall across the state.

Water Resources Department Chief Engineer Dillip Rout said the state has received rainfall higher than the seasonal average, leading to an increase in the river's water level. He said low-lying areas of Jajpur district are likely to be affected if the river continues to swell.

According to the department, the Baitarani River at Akhuapada is expected to cross the danger mark by around 4 pm on Monday. Floodwaters may enter parts of Jajpur and Bhadrak districts, with Akhuapada and nearby areas likely to bear the brunt of the rising water.

However, Rout said there is no possibility of a major flood at present. He added that most reservoirs in the state have sufficient storage capacity and are not posing any concern.

He also clarified that no decision has been taken so far on opening the gates of the Hirakud Dam.