Odisha heatwave alert: Temperatures may exceed 45°C in western districts

Bhubaneswar: The heat is making a strong comeback across Odisha, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting a sharp rise in temperature, especially in the western parts of the state.

According to IMD predictions, temperatures could breach the 45°C mark on April 24 and 25, particularly in districts across Western Odisha.

This comes after a brief period of relief brought on by Kalbaisakhi-induced thunderstorms and rain in several parts of the state. However, the mercury has been steadily climbing again, with several cities already experiencing temperatures above 40°C.

The IMD has warned of intensifying heatwave conditions over the next few days, with the possibility of temperatures increasing by another 4°C.

On Sunday, cities like Jharsuguda, Balangir, and Titlagarh were among the hottest spots, recording temperatures of 43.5°C, 42.5°C, and 42°C respectively. Bhubaneswar wasn’t spared either — the capital city recorded a maximum of 37.5°C, although high humidity levels made it feel even hotter.

Humidity remained high throughout the day in Bhubaneswar, reaching 81% at 8:30 am when the temperature was 31°C. By 11:30 am, it had climbed to 35.2°C with 67% humidity, and by 2:30 pm, temperatures touched 37°C with 61% humidity — creating stifling and uncomfortable conditions.

Meanwhile, parts of Southern and Western Odisha — including districts like Ganjam, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Nuapada, Malkangiri, Koraput, Bargarh, Nabarangapur, Nayagarh, Boudh, Balangir, and Bhadrak — witnessed thunderstorms on Sunday. These were accompanied by lightning and strong gusts of wind, reaching speeds of 40-50 km/h.