Bhubaneswar: Odisha remained on high alert on Thursday as the flood situation continued to be grim in four northern districts, while rising water levels in the Mahanadi triggered fears of a “medium” flood in the river’s downstream areas, officials said. In view of the IMD’s rainfall forecast and the flood situation, authorities ordered the closure of schools and Anganwadi centres in Bhadrak, Jajpur, Nabarangpur and Kalahandi districts. Jajpur Collector Ambar Kumar Kar said the flood situation worsened after two breaches developed in the embankment of the Kani river, a tributary of the Baitarani, near Patana under Dasarathapur block on Wednesday night. The water level at the Hirakud Dam stood at 620 feet against its full reservoir level of 630 feet. Officials said additional gates may have to be opened if the water level continues to rise.