Flash Floods in Balasore: Over 50,000 Residents Affected by Sudden River Surge

A sudden flash flood in Balasore, Odisha, has impacted more than 50,000 residents, following heavy rainfall in Jharkhand. The local administration is mobilizing relief efforts, advising residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert and prepare for possible evacuations. Emergency services are on high alert, with officials monitoring water levels and ensuring the availability of essential supplies. The situation is being closely watched as the water level of the Subarnarekha River remains above the danger mark, although it is gradually receding. The community is being kept informed about the ongoing developments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 21, 2025, 14:01 IST

Impact of Flash Floods in Balasore District

Balasore: A flash flood triggered by heavy rainfall in Jharkhand has impacted over 50,000 individuals in the Balasore district of Odisha, as water from the Subarnarekha River inundated local villages on Saturday, according to official reports.

Seventeen gram panchayat regions across the Bhograi, Baliapal, Basta blocks, and parts of the Jaleswar Notified Area Council (NAC) have been affected. The local administration is mobilizing resources for relief and rescue efforts.

Residents in vulnerable, low-lying areas have been urged to remain vigilant and prepare to relocate to nearby cyclone shelters if conditions worsen.

Balasore District Collector Suryawanshi Mayur Vikas has instructed block development officers (BDOs) and tehsildars to be ready for potential evacuations.

Officials are monitoring the situation closely and providing assistance to those impacted by the flooding. BDOs have been tasked with distributing dry food supplies to affected residents.

The chief district medical officer (CDMO) has been directed to ensure sufficient stocks of essential medicines and healthcare services are available.

The superintending engineer for irrigation has been asked to inspect all gates of the Chandil Dam and maintain continuous monitoring of water levels, implementing necessary safety measures.

The civil supplies officer (CSO) has been instructed to verify the availability of food and essential supplies. All staff leaves have been canceled until further notice, and government officials are prohibited from leaving their posts without prior approval.

According to the District Emergency Office, while the water level of the Subarnarekha at Rajghat is decreasing, it remains at 11.9 meters, above the danger threshold of 10.36 meters.

"We anticipate further reduction in water levels, as rainfall in the upper catchment area of Jharkhand has been minimal," an official stated, adding that there is currently no risk of significant flooding in the Subarnarekha River system.

The district administration is actively informing the public about the situation, noting that the flash flood was exacerbated by an unexpected release of water from the Chandil Dam in Jharkhand.