Odisha on Red Alert: No Relief From Scorching Heatwave for Another Week

Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red warning for Odisha, indicating an intense heatwave expected to continue until April 30.

According to the IMD’s midday bulletin, the state will experience a gradual rise in day temperatures, with levels expected to rise 4 to 6°C above normal in certain districts over the next 4 to 5 days.

The bulletin advises residents to take precautionary measures when outdoors, especially during peak hours between 11 am and 3 pm. Additionally, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and light to moderate rain are forecasted for some parts of Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Keonjhar, and Cuttack districts this afternoon.

As of 11:30 am, Jharsuguda recorded the highest maximum temperature at 40.4°C, with other districts such as Sambalpur, Keonjhar, and Chandbali also experiencing temperatures exceeding 39°C.

The IMD’s extended weather outlook warns of dry weather with isolated severe heatwaves and thunderstorm activity expected in Odisha between April 26 and May 9.

The scorching temperatures have persisted for the 11th consecutive day, with 22 places recording temperatures of 42°C or higher on Thursday. Jharsuguda topped the list at 43.8°C, followed by Baripada, Nuapada, and Talcher, among others.