Bhubaneswar: Intense pre-summer heat gripped parts of Odisha as nine locations recorded maximum daytime temperatures above 35°C, even as thunderstorms and rainfall provided intermittent relief across the State.
Jharsuguda emerged as the hottest spot, soaring to 36.8°C. Other high readings included Talcher at 36.5°C, Boudh at 35.7°C, Paralakhemundi and Rourkela at 35.6°C each, Hirakud and Bhadrak at 35.5°C each, Bhubaneswar (state capital) at 35.3°C, and Sundargarh at 35.2°C.
The mercury’s rise reflects ongoing warm conditions in interior and western districts, consistent with seasonal patterns leading into peak summer. However, scattered thunderstorms and rain in many areas caused a noticeable drop in temperatures in several regions, offering temporary respite from the heat.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for potential severe weather. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hail, and gusty surface winds (up to 50-60 kmph) are likely at isolated places over districts including Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, and Sambalpur.
A Yellow Warning (Be Aware) is in effect for thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds (up to 30-40 kmph) at isolated spots in Deogarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Sonepur, Boudh, Bolangir, Kandhamal, Nuapada, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, Koraput, and Malkangiri.
