Bhubaneswar: Talcher and Jharsuguda emerged as the hottest places in Odisha on Thursday, each recording a scorching 44 degrees Celsius, according to the evening weather bulletin.
The heatwave conditions intensified across the state, with several districts reporting temperatures above 40°C. Sambalpur (43°C), Hirakud (43.4°C), and Dhenkanal (43.5°C) were among other severely affected locations, indicating a widespread rise in daytime temperatures.
The capital city Bhubaneswar recorded 42.1°C, while Cuttack was close behind at 41.8°C. Balasore (35.4°C) and Gopalpur (32.9°C) remained relatively cooler due to coastal influence, though humidity levels stayed high.
Western Odisha bore the brunt of the heat, with Jharsuguda and Talcher leading the temperature chart, followed by Sundargarh (42.5°C) and Angul (43.5°C). Interior pockets such as Sonepur (42.3°C), Boudh (41.4°C), and Nayagarh (41.0°C) also reported intense heat.
Minimum temperatures remained elevated as well, offering little nighttime relief. Jharsuguda recorded a minimum of 21°C, while several stations hovered between 24°C and 27°C.
Humidity levels varied significantly, with coastal stations like Puri and Gopalpur reporting relative humidity above 80 percent in the morning, contributing to discomfort. Rainfall activity remained negligible across the state, with only Koraput and Nawarangpur reporting light precipitation of 0.6 mm.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that such heatwave conditions are likely to persist over parts of the state, urging residents to take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses.
Authorities have advised people to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak afternoon hours and to stay hydrated as temperatures continue to remain abnormally high.
