Bhubaneswar: As intense heatwave conditions grip Odisha, the state government has reported 49 cases of heat-related illnesses, with several individuals requiring medical attention.
According to Public Health Director Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, data collected until April 20 reveals that Sambalpur district recorded the highest number of cases at 40, followed by Deogarh (6 cases), and Khordha, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar (1 case each).
One person was hospitalized on April 19 due to heat-related complications. However, Dr. Mishra clarified that no confirmed heatstroke deaths or severe hospitalizations have been reported so far.
With temperatures soaring, authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure and take preventive measures. By 2:30 PM today, Jharsuguda recorded a blistering 44.8°C, while Sambalpur (42.6°C), Hirakud (41.8°C), and Rourkela (41.2°C) also crossed the 40°C mark.