Scorching Conditions to Continue for Next Five Days
The state is reeling under intense heat, with extremely high temperatures and uncomfortable humidity levels persisting across regions. According to the Bhubaneswar Regional Meteorological Centre, the prevailing weather conditions are expected to continue for the next five days, offering little relief to residents.
Yellow Warning for Warm Nights and Humid Conditions
The weather department has issued a yellow warning for warm night conditions in Sambalpur and Balangir districts. Additionally, 11 coastal districts are likely to experience hot and humid weather, prompting further alerts from the authorities.
Heatwave Warning in Western Districts
A heatwave warning has been issued for Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Sundargarh, and Balangir districts. The intensity of the heat is expected to rise further from April 21, with no significant change in temperature likely over the next 6 to 7 days.
In the last 24 hours, at least 16 districts recorded temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius. Titlagarh reported the highest temperature at 42.7 degrees Celsius, making it one of the hottest places in the state.
Rain and Thunderstorm Likely in Some Districts
Meanwhile, the weather department has forecast light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning in seven districts—Koraput, Rayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj. A yellow warning has been issued for these areas as well.
Schools Closed in Several Districts Due to Extreme Heat
Amid the severe heatwave, district administrations have ordered the closure of educational institutions in multiple districts to ensure student safety.
In Khordha district, all schools will remain closed from April 20 to April 23. The closure applies to both government and private schools, as well as Anganwadi centres.
Authorities in Sambalpur, Nuapada, Nabarangpur, and Jharsuguda have directed that schools, Anganwadi centres, and technical institutions remain closed from April 20 until further notice. In Boudh, institutions will remain shut until April 22, while Mayurbhanj has declared closure from April 20 to April 23.
Earlier, Balangir, Subarnapur, and Kalahandi districts had also announced school closures from April 18 to April 21 due to the ongoing heatwave.
Authorities Urge Caution
Officials have advised people to take necessary precautions, avoid exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours, and stay hydrated as the state continues to face extreme summer conditions.