Odisha schools shut as heavy monsoon rains flood districts

The Odisha state administration ordered schools and colleges to remain closed in several districts, including Sambalpur, Cuttack, Kataka, Kandhamal, Subarnapur and Baragarh, after continuous heavy rainfall triggered an active monsoon depression. The India Meteorological Department issued orange warnings for heavy to very heavy rain in the affected districts and yellow warnings for surrounding areas, forecasting additional downpours through July 7.

Rainfall totals topped 200 mm in 12 locations within 24 hours, with Subarnapur recording 328.4 mm. Authorities reported water‑logging, damaged roads and uprooted trees, and advised residents to avoid travel. Fishermen were warned against venturing into the Bay of Bengal. The closures aim to protect students, teachers and staff amid the ongoing severe weather conditions.