Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre recorded extreme heat conditions across several parts of Odisha on Thursday, with the western town of Jharsuguda emerging as the hottest place in the state.
According to the temperature recordings at 2:30 PM today, Jharsuguda recorded a scorching maximum temperature of 43.4 degrees Celsius. The relative humidity in the region was measured at a very dry 14 per cent, intensifying the heatwave-like conditions.
Following closely, the Hirakud region reported a temperature of 43.0°C with 29 per cent humidity, while Sambalpur simmered at 42.6°C and Rourkela recorded 42.0°C. The state capital, Bhubaneswar, also experienced severe heat, with the mercury climbing to 41.8°C at a humidity level of 33 per cent.
The data revealed a sharp contrast between the interior and coastal belts of the state. While western and interior Odisha reeled under intense dry heat, coastal stations recorded relatively lower temperatures due to higher moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal.
Paradip was the coolest among the monitored stations at 31.6°C, though with a high humidity level of 76 per cent, making conditions sultry. Gopalpur recorded 32.2°C (70% humidity), Puri registered 32.8°C (74%), and Balasore settled at 33.2°C (69%). Chandbali, meanwhile, reported 37.8°C with 60 per cent humidity.
The IMD has advised residents in interior districts to take precautions against severe heat, avoid direct sun exposure between noon and 3 PM, and stay hydrated.
