Odisha faces intense heatwave and humid conditions this week, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing yellow warnings for multiple districts between May 27 and May 31.
Dr Manorama Mohanty from the Meteorological Centre said warm night conditions prevailed in Sambalpur and Bolangir, while Titilagarh recorded the highest temperature at 44.5°C. Balasore registered the lowest at 21.6°C. Temperatures remained 3–4°C above normal in several parts of the state.
The IMD forecast heatwave conditions in Sambalpur, Boudh, Sonepur, Bolangir, Nuapada, and Kalahandi districts on May 27–28. Coastal areas, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, and Nayagarh, will experience hot and humid weather through May 31.
Officials advised residents to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and to stay hydrated. Vulnerable groups such as infants, elderly people, pregnant women, and those with health conditions should take extra precautions.
The IMD urged people to wear light cotton clothes, use umbrellas or wet cloths to cover their heads, and drink fluids like lassi, torani, sugarcane juice, and buttermilk. Farmers were advised to continue irrigation in summer crops and vegetables.
Authorities also asked organisers of rallies and gatherings to monitor conditions carefully and ensure safety measures during peak heat hours. Livestock owners should keep animals in shaded areas with an adequate water supply.
