Coastal Odisha to Face Intense Heat and Humidity
Odisha is set to experience severe heat coupled with high humidity, leading to uncomfortable weather conditions across the state. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning for 11 coastal districts—Ganjam, Gajapati, Nayagarh, Khordha, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Puri, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak, and Balasore—for the next 24 hours. Residents in these areas are likely to face oppressive heat along with sultry conditions.
Temperature Likely to Soar Further
The heatwave is expected to intensify in the coming days. In parts of western Odisha, temperatures may exceed 45°C. Interior regions are also likely to witness extreme heat, with districts like Balangir, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, and Sonepur expected to experience heatwave conditions. A yellow alert has been issued for these areas as well.
Recent Temperature Records Across the State
Over the past 24 hours, several regions have already recorded high temperatures. Titlagarh registered 41.5°C, while Bhawanipatna and Balangir recorded 41°C each. Jharsuguda reported 40.7°C, Hirakud 40°C, and Sambalpur 40.1°C. Meanwhile, Bhubaneswar and Cuttack recorded comparatively lower temperatures at 37.7°C and 37.4°C, respectively.
Heatwave Conditions to Persist Through April 17–18
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that heatwave conditions will prevail in many parts of interior Odisha on April 17 and 18. Coastal districts will continue to suffer from high heat and humidity, with little relief expected.
Possibility of Thunderstorms in Northern and Southern Regions
Despite the prevailing heat, some districts may witness isolated rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. On April 17, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, and Balasore may experience thunderstorms. Similarly, between April 18 and 19, districts such as Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri could receive rainfall with lightning.
Rising Temperatures Due to Dry and Moist Air Flow
Meteorological experts attribute the rising temperatures to the continuous flow of dry northwesterly winds from central India affecting interior Odisha. At the same time, coastal areas are experiencing moisture-laden southwesterly winds, leading to high humidity and sultry conditions.
Clear Skies to Intensify Heat Impact
With minimal chances of thunderstorms like Kalbaisakhi, the sky is expected to remain mostly clear across the state. This will result in intense solar radiation, further aggravating the heat conditions. Interior Odisha is likely to see temperatures around 41°C, with some places touching up to 44°C.
Expert Opinion on Heatwave Trends
Weather expert Professor Surendranath Pashupalak has indicated that the current weather pattern will continue to push temperatures above normal levels throughout the week, making conditions increasingly harsh for residents across Odisha.
Advisory for Residents
People are advised to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses as the state braces for extreme summer conditions.