Odisha continued to sizzle under extreme heat on Thursday as temperatures soared above 40°C across several districts.
Jharsuguda recorded the highest temperature at 41.8°C, followed by Sambalpur at 41.2°C and Hirakud at 40.6°C. Keonjhar registered 39.4°C, while Bhubaneswar and Rourkela recorded 38.4°C and 38°C, respectively, at 11.30 am.
The capital city, Bhubaneswar, witnessed a sharp rise in temperature compared to Wednesday, when the mercury stood at 35.4°C at the same hour. Residents struggled under the blazing sun and high humidity, describing the conditions as unbearable.
Meteorological officials warned that the heatwave would persist for the next five days, with western Odisha districts likely to experience temperatures above 42°C. The coastal belt, including Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, faced severe discomfort due to high humidity levels despite slightly lower temperatures.
Health authorities advised people to stay indoors during peak hours, drink plenty of water, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. The state government also urged citizens to remain alert and take precautions against heatstroke.
