Odisha continues to reel under a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring to record highs. Hirakud recorded a scorching 44°C by mid-afternoon on Tuesday, making it one of the hottest spots in the state. Jharsuguda followed closely at 43.8°C while Sambalpur also crossed the 43°C mark.

The extreme heat has affected daily life, with residents taking precautions to stay safe. Many sought shade, increased fluid intake, and adjusted their routines to avoid the sweltering midday sun. Streets that are usually busy remained relatively quiet as people tried to beat the heat.

Amid the heatwave conditions across the country, the Ministry of Ayush has issued detailed safety guidelines for coping with extreme heat and heatwave conditions this summer, advising citizens on preventive measures to protect their health.

The advisory emphasizes adequate hydration, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, use of light cotton clothing, and consumption of seasonal fruits and fluids rich in electrolytes. 

It cautions citizens to remain alert for danger signs of heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, headache, nausea, altered mental status, high body temperature, dehydration, seizures and fainting. 

Heatstroke a major issue- the advisory recommends promptly calling emergency helplines 108 and 102 in severe cases. 

The Ministry said, the advisory has been issued for the general public, vulnerable groups, employers, workers, and participants in mass gatherings and sports events to safeguard themselves against heat stress and heat-related illnesses. 

It emphasizes that infants, children, pregnant women, elderly persons, outdoor workers, and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses such as heart disease and hypertension are particularly vulnerable during heatwave conditions and require special care and monitoring. 

The advisory also incorporates traditional wellness and preventive measures from various Ayush systems including Ayurveda, Siddha, Yoga, Unani and Homoeopathy for combating heatwave conditions. 

It has recommended cooling dietary practices, intake of hydrating beverages such as buttermilk, coconut water and lemon-based drinks, and use of traditional preparations including Nimbukaphala Panaka, Amra Prapanaka and Chincha Panaka to help regulate body temperature during extreme heat. 

It further encourages the public to include hydrating and cooling traditional food items such as cucumber, watermelon, lime, musk melon, ash gourd and tomatoes in their daily diet during the summer season.