Severe heatwave tightened its grip over several parts of Odisha, with Jharsuguda and Sambalpur recording temperatures around the 45-degree mark, causing immense discomfort to residents on Wednesday. The scorching weather, coupled with high humidity levels, has severely affected normal life across western Odisha.

Also Read: Odisha to face thunderstorms, gusty winds, and heat over next week: IMD issues orange and yellow warnings

According to weather reports, Jharsuguda recorded a temperature of 45.2 degrees Celsius by 2.30 PM, making it the hottest town in the State once again. The town has consistently remained among the hottest places in Odisha over the past several days as intense sunlight and dry winds continue to push temperatures upward.

Sambalpur also witnessed extreme weather conditions today, with the mercury touching 45 Degrees Celsius. Residents in both districts struggled to cope with the sweltering heat, especially during afternoon hours when roads, marketplaces, and public areas appeared largely deserted.

The unbearable heat and humidity have made outdoor activities difficult for people, while workers, commuters, and small traders are among the worst affected. Health experts have advised people to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.

The surging temperatures have also increased demand for drinking water, electricity, and cooling appliances in many urban and rural areas. Authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation as the heatwave conditions continue to intensify in parts of the State.

Meteorologists believe that dry weather conditions, along with strong solar radiation, are contributing to the sharp rise in daytime temperatures. With no immediate relief in sight, people in the affected districts are bracing for more challenging weather conditions in the coming days.

Intense summer heat has once again highlighted the growing impact of extreme weather patterns in Odisha, particularly in the western districts that frequently experience high temperatures during the peak summer season.

In its evening bulletin, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) regional centre stated, “Maximum temperature has observed appreciable fall by about 2-4°C at one or two places over the districts of North Coastal Odisha and no large change at elsewhere over the districts of Odisha. They were appreciably above normal by about 3°C at one or two places over the districts of Interior Odisha, above normal by about 2-3°C at a few places over the districts of Odisha, and normal at elsewhere over the districts of Odisha.”

The highest maximum temperature of 44.8°C was recorded yesterday at Jharsuguda, and the lowest minimum temperature of 22.5°C was recorded at Nabarangpur in the plains of Odisha. No large change is likely in the maximum temperature during the next 6-7 days over the districts of Odisha.

Notably, the IMD advised people to keep a watch on the weather and take safe shelter during thunderstorm activity to protect from lightning and follow advisories in urban areas.