Heatwave Grips Odisha: IMD Issues Yellow Warning

Bhubaneswar: As temperatures soar across Odisha, the state grapples with a severe heatwave, with several regions recording temperatures of 40°C or higher. The India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) regional centre in Bhubaneswar reported that at least six places in the state registered temperatures of 40°C or more by 2:30 PM on Tuesday.

Bhubaneswar emerged as the hottest place, recording a scorching 41.9°C by early afternoon. Chandbali followed closely with a temperature of 41.6°C, while Jharsuguda recorded 41.4°C. Other regions experiencing extreme heat include Balasore (40.5°C), Sambalpur (40.3°C), Keonjhar (40°C), Rourkela (39.9°C), Hirakud (39.5°C), Gopalpur (35.6°C), Puri (34.8°C), and Paradip (34.2°C).

In response to the prevailing heatwave conditions, the IMD has issued a yellow warning for heatwave in 20 districts of Odisha. The warning indicates that the weather conditions are expected to remain unchanged and unbearable over the next four days. The IMD has advised residents, especially the elderly, children, and pregnant women, to avoid outdoor activities between 11 am and 3 pm unless absolutely necessary.

Furthermore, the IMD forecasts that the maximum temperature will continue to rise by 4°C to 5°C over the next four days. Heatwave alerts have been issued for Malkangiri, Koraput, Kandhamal, Kendrapada, Dhenkanal, Nayagarh, Malkangari, Angul, Bhadrak, Kendrapada, Boudh, and Khurda on April 17, indicating the severity of the ongoing heatwave.

As Odisha grapples with soaring temperatures, authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe and hydrated amid the intense heat. The state government, along with relevant agencies, is closely monitoring the situation an