Odisha reels under a relentless heatwave with western districts recording temperatures above 43°C and coastal areas hovering between 38°C and 40°C.
Jharsuguda emerged as the hottest spot at 44.1°C, nearly three degrees above normal. Titilagarh touched 43°C, Balangir 43.5°C, and Nuapada 43°C. Sambalpur, Hirakud, Sundargarh, Sonepur, and Bhawanipatna also reported scorching conditions above 42°C.
The India Meteorological Department forecast similar weather for Sunday and Monday, with no major relief expected until Tuesday, April 28. Officials indicated a possible drop of 2 to 4 degrees by midweek, but warned that oppressive heat will continue across most districts.
Coastal Odisha remains hot and humid, with Bhubaneswar and Cuttack recording slightly lower temperatures at 36.6°C and 36.8°C. The Met Department highlighted the likelihood of Kalbaisakhi activity in South Odisha, bringing isolated rain and gusty winds. Norwester conditions may persist until May 1, offering a brief respite in select areas.
Heatwave conditions are likely to prevail in Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Jharsuguda, Balangir, Sambalpur, and Angul. Seventeen places across the state recorded above 40°C on Saturday, underscoring the severity of the crisis.
Residents face mounting challenges as the mercury climbs, disrupting daily life and prompting health advisories. Authorities urged people to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor exposure during peak hours, and monitor weather updates closely. The heatwave continues to grip Odisha, with only marginal relief expected in the coming days.
