Odisha continues to reel under an intense heatwave as soaring temperatures and humid weather conditions grip several parts of the state. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the prevailing heatwave situation is likely to continue till May 29, with several districts expected to experience severe heat stress, warm nights and uncomfortable humidity.
Temperatures Soar Across the State
The scorching weather intensified further on Monday as temperatures climbed steadily through the day. By 11:30 AM, Sambalpur recorded 41.4 degrees Celsius, while Hirakud registered 40.2 degrees Celsius. Jharsuguda touched 40 degrees Celsius and Bhubaneswar recorded 36.2 degrees Celsius.
As the day progressed, temperatures rose sharply in many regions. By 2:30 PM, Sambalpur emerged as one of the hottest places in the state with 44 degrees Celsius, while Hirakud recorded 42 degrees Celsius. Bhubaneswar registered 37.6 degrees Celsius. However, Jharsuguda witnessed a drop in temperature to 34.2 degrees Celsius due to the impact of Kalbaisakhi thunderstorms.
Heatwave and Warm Night Conditions Persist
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, heatwave conditions along with warm nights are likely to continue in one or two places in Sambalpur and Balangir districts. Boudh district is also expected to experience severe heatwave conditions.
Keeping the situation in view, the weather department has issued a Red Warning for Sambalpur, Balangir and Boudh districts till May 27.
Orange Alert for Several Western Odisha Districts
An Orange Alert has been issued for Jharsuguda, Sonepur, Kalahandi and Nuapada districts due to the ongoing heatwave conditions. Meanwhile, Kandhamal district has been placed under Yellow Alert.
Hot and Humid Weather in Coastal and Interior Odisha
Apart from western Odisha, hot and humid weather conditions are expected to persist in several coastal and interior districts including Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Puri, Khordha, Gajapati, Ganjam, Jajpur, Nayagarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri and Nabarangpur.
Residents in these areas are likely to experience severe discomfort due to high humidity levels and rising temperatures.
Health Advisory: Who Are Most at Risk?
The ongoing heatwave may severely affect children, elderly persons, pregnant women and people suffering from illnesses. Authorities have advised people to avoid stepping outdoors during the peak heat hours between 11 AM and 3 PM unless absolutely necessary.
Citizens have also been advised to stay hydrated, wear light cotton clothes and take adequate precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Western Odisha Sizzles Under Extreme Heat
Western Odisha continues to remain the worst affected region in the state. On Sunday, temperatures crossed 44 degrees Celsius in nine places, while six locations recorded temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius.
Titlagarh, famously known as the “hottest town” of Odisha, recorded the highest temperature in the state at 45.8 degrees Celsius. Boudh followed closely with 45.6 degrees Celsius, while Bhawanipatna recorded 45.4 degrees Celsius. Sambalpur registered 45.3 degrees Celsius, Sonepur 45.2 degrees Celsius and Balangir touched 45 degrees Celsius.
With no immediate relief in sight, residents across Odisha continue to struggle under the relentless summer heat.