Jharsuguda continued to scorch under intense heat, recording a temperature of 45.2°C by 2:30 PM today, making it the hottest city in Odisha.
Sambalpur also touched 45°C, confirming the persistence of the severe heatwave across western Odisha.
Meteorological data indicated that Jharsuguda has consistently topped the temperature charts for several consecutive days. The extreme conditions have led to rising discomfort among residents, with advisories urging people to stay indoors during peak hours.
Residents reported intense humidity compounding the discomfort, making conditions oppressive from early morning. Streets and markets turned deserted after 10 AM as people avoided venturing out unless necessary. Vehicular movement dropped sharply between 9 AM and 5 PM, while passenger buses witnessed a steep fall in commuters.
Locals sought relief at juice stalls, lassi shops, and cold drink outlets, which saw heavy crowds. Animals and birds also struggled in the scorching conditions, seeking shade and water. Municipal authorities placed water pots at several points across the city to help ease the distress.
