Odisha Grapples with Intense Heatwave as Mercury Soar Above 40°C

Sambalpur recorded the state’s highest temperature at 43.2°C, while other cities like Titlagarh (42.5°C), Bolangir (42°C), and Bhubaneswar (40.7°C) also faced scorching conditions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the heatwave, coupled with high humidity in coastal areas, will persist until at least May 15, disrupting daily life and prompting yellow warnings for multiple districts.

Unlike March and April, which saw milder weather, May has brought a dramatic surge in temperatures, with Sunday marking a significant escalation compared to Saturday. Coastal regions, including Balasore (39.7°C), Jagatsinghpur (39.6°C), and Cuttack (39.4°C), are battling warm, humid conditions that have made outdoor activities nearly unbearable.

Meanwhile, western Odisha, including districts like Sambalpur, Sundargarh, and Jharsuguda, is experiencing classic heatwave conditions, with dry, searing heat pushing temperatures to dangerous levels.

The IMD’s regional weather centre in Bhubaneswar reported that no significant weather systems are influencing the state, leading to clear skies and rising daytime temperatures. While some areas, such as Koraput, recorded light rainfall (15.2 mm), the overall forecast remains dry, exacerbating the heatwave.

The IMD predicts that temperatures could rise by an additional 2-3°C in the coming days, potentially reaching 44°C in parts of western Odisha by May 13.

Record-Breaking Temperatures Across Odisha

Sunday’s temperature readings underscored the severity of the heatwave:

• Sambalpur: 43.2°C (state’s highest)

• Titlagarh: 42.5°C

• Bolangir: 42°C

• Sundargarh: 41.8°C

• Angul: 41.7°C

• Jharsuguda and Hirakud: 41.6°C

• Sonepur: 41.4°C

• Boudh and Paralakhemundi: 41.2°C

• Bhubaneswar and Dhenkanal: 40.7°C

• Khurda: 40.5°C

• Baripada, Rourkela, and Bargarh: 40.4°C

• Nuapada and Nayagarh: 40°C

Coastal areas, while slightly cooler, faced stifling humidity. Balasore and Chandbali recorded 39.7°C, Jagatsinghpur 39.6°C, and Cuttack and Jajpur 39.4°C. Bhadrak (39°C) and Kendrapara (38.2°C) also reported uncomfortable conditions, with humidity levels making the heat feel more oppressive. The IMD noted that daytime temperatures in most coastal areas remained above 39°C.

Weather Warnings and Forecast

The IMD has issued yellow warnings for several districts, highlighting the dual challenges of heatwave conditions in western Odisha and warm, humid weather along the coast. For Monday, May 12, the following districts are under a yellow warning for warm, humid conditions:

• Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khurda, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar.

Starting Tuesday, May 13, the heatwave is expected to intensify, with yellow warnings for heatwave conditions issued for:

• Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Sundargarh, Balangir, Boudh, Khurda, Cuttack, Kalahandi, and Balasore.

Additionally, coastal districts like Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar will continue to face warm, humid weather. The IMD has also forecasted light rainfall in some districts, including Puri, Khurda, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Sonpur, Boudh, Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri, but this is unlikely to provide significant relief from the heat.

According to IMD scientist Sanjeev Dwivedi, the absence of major weather systems and the prevalence of clear skies will drive temperatures higher in the coming days. “The public should avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, stay hydrated, and wear light clothing to mitigate the risks of heatstroke,” Dwivedi advised.

Impact on Daily Life

The heatwave and humidity have disrupted daily routines across Odisha. In coastal areas, the muggy weather has made it difficult for residents to carry out routine tasks, with many avoiding outdoor activities during the day. In urban centres like Bhubaneswar, where the temperature hit 40.7°C—its highest this year—offices and markets reported reduced footfall during the afternoon hours. 

Bhubaneswar

1 of 6

- +

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

The state government has urged residents to follow heatwave safety protocols, including staying indoors between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., drinking adequate water, and avoiding strenuous activities. Health officials have also warned of the risks of dehydration and heatstroke, particularly for the elderly and children.

Looking Ahead

The IMD’s forecast indicates that the heatwave will peak between May 13 and 15, with temperatures in western Odisha potentially touching 44°C. Coastal areas will continue to grapple with high humidity, making conditions feel even hotter. While light rainfall is expected in some districts, it is unlikely to significantly alter the overall weather pattern.

As Odisha braces for another week of extreme heat, residents are advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. The IMD will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as the heatwave evolves.