Odisha is grappling with intense heat and humidity as the southwest monsoon has remained inactive for the past 10 days, stalled by unfavourable weather conditions and dry westerly winds.
The absence of moisture-laden air from the sea has triggered a surge in daytime temperatures, leaving residents across the state reeling under sweltering conditions. On Monday, 10 cities recorded temperatures exceeding 39°C, with Balasore emerging as the hottest at a scorching 39.8°C.
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar reports that the monsoon’s progress has been halted by dry westerly winds, blocking the inflow of humid air from the Bay of Bengal. This has led to a complete absence of monsoon-related rainfall or thunderstorms across Odisha, intensifying the heatwave. Coastal and western districts are particularly affected, with temperatures climbing steadily. Bhubaneswar recorded 39.6°C, while Talcher, Paralakhemundi, Cuttack, and Baripada hit 39.4°C. Jharsuguda (39.2°C), Sambalpur (39.1°C), and Bhadrak (39°C) also faced extreme heat, with 10 other cities surpassing 38°C.
Yellow Warning and Persistent Heat
The meteorological department has issued a yellow warning for hot and humid conditions on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, targeting coastal districts such as Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Ganjam, and Gajapati. Temperatures in these areas are expected to hover between 39°C and 40°C, with intense humidity adding to the discomfort. This warning extends until June 6, 2025, as dry weather dominates most of the state.
While a glimmer of hope exists for southern districts like Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, and Gajapati, where isolated monsoon-related showers are forecast, the broader state outlook remains dry. “The monsoon has been inactive across Odisha and much of the country for 10 days due to the influence of dry westerly winds,” explained Sanjeev Dwivedi, a scientist at the Regional Meteorological Centre. “We expect this hot and humid spell to persist until June 6, with daytime temperatures potentially reaching 40°C to 41°C in some areas.”
Monsoon Delays and Future Outlook
The stalled monsoon has left Odisha without significant rainfall for a week, even after its initial arrival. Experts attribute the break in monsoon activity to the prevailing westerly winds, which have disrupted the typical weather patterns. However, relief may be on the horizon. A low-pressure area is expected to form over the Bay of Bengal after June 10, 2025, potentially bringing rainfall for 4 to 5 days. This could ease the heatwave and provide much-needed respite to parched regions.
Until then, hot and humid conditions are likely to persist, particularly in coastal and western Odisha, lasting through the Snana Purnima festival. The combination of high temperatures and humidity has raised concerns about heat stress, prompting authorities to advise residents to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
Impact and Precautions
The prolonged dry spell and rising temperatures have strained daily life, agriculture, and water resources across Odisha. Farmers are particularly concerned as the lack of rain hampers crop growth, while urban residents face discomfort from the unrelenting heat. The yellow warning underscores the need for vigilance, especially in coastal districts where humidity exacerbates the heat index.
As Odisha awaits the revival of the monsoon, the coming days will test the resilience of its people. The anticipated low-pressure system post-June 10 offers hope, but until then, the state braces for more heat and humidity. Stay tuned for updates from the Regional Meteorological Centre as the weather situation evolves.
