Schools in five Odisha districts closed on August 17, 2026 , due to heavy rainfall and flooding. District administrations ordered closures for student and staff safety. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued severe weather warnings.
Affected Districts
Closures were confirmed in Bhadrak , Keonjhar (Kendujhar) , Jajpur , Mayurbhanj , and Balasore (Baleshwar) . The closures affected schools, and in some areas, Anganwadi centers and other educational institutions.
Flood Situation Triggers Closures
Persistent rainfall caused rivers like the Baitarani, Brahmani, Salandi, Jalaka, and Budhabalanga to swell. This led to flooding in hundreds of villages across northern Odisha. The IMD issued a red warning for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in parts of the state. A weather system over the northwest Bay of Bengal intensified, increasing flood risks.
Impact on Students
As of August 16, over 2.37 lakh people evacuated due to flooding. Normal life faced disruption. In one incident, hundreds of students were stranded at a government residential school in Kendrapara. Rescue operations were initiated.
Future Closures
Decisions on school closures for August 18, 2026 , will depend on weather conditions. District administrations will issue further orders. Parents and students should check official district or school announcements for updates before travelling.
