Over 50,000 people have been affected after a flash flood in the Subarnarekha River caused water to enter their villages in Odisha’s Balasore district on Saturday. This followed heavy rainfall in the neighbouring state of Jharkhand, an official stated.

As many as 17 gram panchayat areas across the three blocks of Bhograi, Baliapal, Basta, and a portion of the Jaleswar Notified Area Council (NAC) were impacted by the sudden flood, the official confirmed. The administration has promptly geared up for extensive relief and rescue operations, reported news agency PTI.

Following the flash floods, residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas received advice to remain alert and be prepared to relocate to nearby cyclone shelters if the situation deteriorates, he said.