Bhubaneswar: Odisha is witnessing a severe flood situation following incessant rainfall triggered by a deep depression, with several rivers rising above their danger levels and affecting large parts of the state.

The situation is particularly serious in Balasore, where water levels in the Jalaka, Budhabalanga and Subarnarekha rivers have risen sharply following heavy rainfall in their upstream catchments. Several blocks, including Balasore Sadar, Remuna, Basta, Baliapal, Jaleswar and Bhograi, have been affected.

In several areas, floodwater has entered homes and villages, forcing residents to move to safer locations. In some parts of Balasore, people whose houses were submerged have taken shelter on embankments by putting up temporary tarpaulin shelters.

The flood situation has also deteriorated in Jajpur district. A breach of around 70 feet in the Kani river embankment has inundated several villages in Jajpur and Dasarathpur blocks. More than 10 villages have reportedly been affected, with residents, including children, taking shelter on embankments.

Bhadrak has witnessed another spell of flooding in the Baitarani and Salandi rivers. This is reportedly the seventh flood in the district this season. Water levels in both rivers have risen well above the danger marks, submerging bridges and causing breaches at several locations.

The Baitarani river has also crossed the danger level in Keonjhar, raising concerns over downstream areas.

The impact of the deep depression has also been felt in southern Odisha. In Nabarangpur district, 29 gram panchayats have been affected. Agricultural fields containing paddy, maize and vegetables have been inundated, while several houses have also reported waterlogging.