# No cyclone in Odisha, only heavy rain, says IMD 2026-09-17T14:51:54+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 2 independent outlets The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has dismissed social media rumours of a cyclone over Odisha, urging people not to panic. Director General Dr Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said a low-pressure area is forming over the Bay of Bengal and will bring heavy rainfall, but no cyclone has been forecast at this stage, as reported by Hindustan Times. The Odisha government has placed 20 districts on alert and asked 10 others to remain vigilant, India Today reports. Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari said some weather models indicate a possible cyclone, but IMD scientist Manorama Mohanty said the system may intensify into a depression, not necessarily a cyclonic storm. An orange alert for thunderstorms and lightning has been issued for 15 districts, with heavy rain expected from September 22. ## Indian Opinion Analysis Both sources report the same meteorological event, but their emphasis differs. Hindustan Times leads with the IMD denial of a cyclone, framing the story as debunking panic. India Today leads with the government's 20-district alert and mentions the minister's reference to cyclone models, giving more weight to preparedness. Neither outlet overstates the danger, India Today provides more granular detail on alerts and districts. The balanced reading is that the system is being monitored closely, and the next update will come once the low-pressure area forms around September 19. The IMD has not declared a cyclone, but the government is preparing for heavy rain and possible depression. ## Coverage - hindustantimes.com (neutral report) Leads with IMD denial of cyclone, emphasises no panic. - indiatoday.in (neutral report) Leads with government alert and minister's cyclone model remark. Tags: Bay of Bengal, IMD, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Odisha Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/imd-dismisses-cyclone-rumours-for-odisha-warns-of-heavy-rain/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/imd-dismisses-cyclone-rumours-for-odisha-warns-of-heavy-rain/#story-in-brief