Bhubaneswar: Even as Odisha continues to deal with the aftermath of heavy rainfall and floods triggered by the recent depression, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated the possibility of another weather system forming over the Bay of Bengal in the first half of August.

According to the IMD's extended range outlook for cyclogenesis over the North Indian Ocean, a fresh upper air cyclonic circulation is likely to develop over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Odisha and West Bengal towards the end of 'Week 1' (July 31 to August 6) and the beginning of 'Week 2' (August 7 to August 13).

Under its influence, a low pressure area is likely to form over the same region during the middle of 'Week 2', indicating the potential for another spell of widespread rainfall across Odisha and neighbouring states.

The forecast comes at a time when several districts of Odisha are reeling under the impact of heavy rainfall. The heavy rain led to flooding in many areas, affecting normal life and damaging assets.

Meanwhile, the IMD said the current depression has moved away from Odisha. As of 5.30 am on Friday, the depression was centred over central Vidarbha and adjoining south Madhya Pradesh.

The IMD said the depression is likely to continue moving west-northwestwards across Vidarbha and adjoining south Madhya Pradesh during the next 24 hours.

With another low pressure area likely to develop over the Bay during the first half of August, Odisha could witness fresh rainfall activity, although the exact intensity and affected areas will become clearer as the weather system evolves.