The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued a red warning for the likely continuation of intense heatwave conditions at isolated places in Sambalpur, Balangir, and Boudh districts. Additionally, warm nights are expected over the next two days.
Heatwave Warnings Across Districts
Orange and yellow heatwave warnings of varying intensities will persist in Jharsuguda, Sonepur, Nuapada, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Bolangir, Boudh, Bargarh, and Kandhamal districts until May 29. The IMD forecast indicates no immediate relief from the intense heatwave in western Odisha for the second consecutive week.
Temperature Records
On Monday, Boudh recorded a maximum temperature of 45.9 degrees Celsius, while Titilagarh reached 45.5 degrees Celsius, making them the hottest towns in Odisha. At least 18 other towns or cities experienced temperatures between 50 and 44 degrees Celsius. In coastal areas, hot and humid conditions with a high heat index continued, even though mercury levels remained below 40 degrees Celsius at several places. Bhubaneswar recorded a maximum temperature of 38.3 degrees Celsius.
Hot and Humid Conditions in Coastal Districts
The IMD further forecast that hot and humid conditions would persist at isolated places in 17 districts: Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghapur, Cuttack, Angul, Dhenkanal, Nawrangpur, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khurda, and Nayagarh. Additionally, thunderstorm activities accompanied by lightning and gusty surface winds are expected to continue in several districts this week, according to an IMD bulletin.
Temperature Outlook
Manorama Mohanty, head of the regional IMD centre, stated that there would be no significant change in daytime temperatures until May 29. Thereafter, temperatures are likely to drop by two to three degrees Celsius.
Government Advisory
The state government has placed district collectors on alert and issued an advisory to take necessary steps to mitigate the impact of the heatwave. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, and follow safety guidelines.
