Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted that there will be no significant change in temperature across Odisha for the next three days.
While isolated norwester (Kalbaisakhi thunderstorm) activity may occur at some places daily, hot and humid conditions are likely to persist till June 9 in several coastal districts and adjacent areas.
According to IMD, a trough line over central India is preventing moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal from entering the state. This has resulted in reduced moisture and a sudden spike in temperatures. The influence of the trough is expected to weaken in the next 2-3 days. However, the heatwave conditions may continue till June 9.
Going by the IMD prediction, thunderstorm activity is likely to increase from June 11, with a possibility of light rainfall across the state around June 13-14, which could mark the onset of the monsoon in Odisha. However, a clearer picture regarding monsoon arrival is expected in the coming days.
On Friday, several parts of the state reeled under intense heat. Boudh recorded the highest maximum temperature of 41.7°C, followed by Sambalpur at 41.2°C, Bhubaneswar and Angul at 41.1°C each. Jharsuguda, Balangir, Talcher, and Nayagarh touched 41°C, while Hirakud, Paralakhemundi, Titlagarh, Dhenkanal, and Khordha recorded 40°C. In coastal areas, temperatures crossed 39°C in many places, with Chandbali recording 39.6°C and Cuttack 39.4°C.
Even though Bhubaneswar’s maximum temperature was 41°C, residents of the capital experienced a “feels-like” temperature of around 50°C due to high humidity, making the conditions extremely uncomfortable.
The IMD has advised people to take necessary precautions against the heat and stay hydrated.
