Bhubaneswar: Residents of the state capital Bhubaneswar are grappling with severe discomfort due to high humidity and elevated temperatures, even in the early morning hours. At 5:30 am today, the temperature stood at 31.4°C with 84% relative humidity, pushing the Heat Index to a scorching 44°C, according to NOAA (USA) formula calculations.
This ‘feels-like’ temperature has remained alarmingly high over the past four days, making outdoor activity difficult even before sunrise.
Heat Index at 5:30 AM (Last 4 Days):
- May 22: Temperature 31.4°C | Humidity 84% | Heat Index 44°C
- May 21: Temperature 29.6°C | Humidity 90% | Heat Index 39°C
- May 20: Temperature 30.0°C | Humidity 88% | Heat Index 40°C
- May 19: Temperature 30.0°C | Humidity 86.5% | Heat Index 40°C
The combination of high moisture in the air and rising temperatures has significantly increased the Heat Index, reducing the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating. High humidity levels (84–90%) are the primary reason behind the oppressive muggy conditions being reported across the city.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Bhubaneswar and other parts of coastal Odisha are currently under hot and humid conditions. Daytime maximum temperatures have also been high, with recent recordings crossing 42°C in some areas. The IMD has forecast that this hot and humid weather is likely to persist in the coming days, with a possibility of thundershowers in some districts, though it may not bring much relief from the humidity.
Health Advisory for Citizens:
- Stay hydrated and consume plenty of fluids, including ORS.
- Avoid going outdoors during peak heat hours (especially 11 AM to 4 PM).
- Wear light-coloured, loose cotton clothes and use umbrellas or hats when stepping out.
- Pay special attention to children, elderly people, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity during early morning and late afternoon if possible.
IMD officials have urged people to remain cautious as the combination of heat and humidity can lead to heat-related illnesses. People are advised to monitor local weather updates regularly. This unusual early-morning discomfort highlights the increasing impact of humid heatwaves in coastal regions of Odisha during the pre-monsoon period.
