Bhubaneswar: Despite thunderstorm and rain activity in several parts of the state, hot weather conditions continued to prevail across Odisha on Saturday, with Titlagarh emerging as the hottest place at 41.7 degrees Celsius, according to the evening weather bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre.
At least five locations recorded temperatures above the 41-degree mark. Apart from Titlagarh, Boudh (41.9°C), Bhawanipatna (41.5°C), Nayagarh (41.5°C), and Talcher (41.0°C) experienced intense heat during the day.
The state capital Bhubaneswar recorded 40.7°C, while Sambalpur and Baripada registered 40.6°C each. Dhenkanal reported 40.3°C, while Jharsuguda and Bolangir recorded 39.7°C and 40.8°C, respectively.
Among other major centres, Angul (39.1°C), Hirakud (39.0°C), Kendujhar (35.1°C), Cuttack (37.6°C), Balasore (35.8°C), Puri (36.4°C), Koraput (37.5°C), Rayagada (36.4°C), and Rourkela (35.9°C) reported temperatures below the 40-degree mark.
The highest rainfall during the 24-hour period ending at 8:30 am was recorded in Rourkela (66 mm), followed by Paralakhemundi (26.8 mm), Keonjhar (21.6 mm), Chandbali (15.6 mm) and Bhadrak (13.2 mm). Rainfall associated with Kalbaisakhi thunderstorms was reported from several districts, bringing temporary relief from the heat.
Humidity levels remained high across most parts of the state, with morning relative humidity ranging between 52 and 89 per cent, indicating sultry weather conditions in many areas.
The IMD has indicated that thunderstorm activity is likely to continue over parts of Odisha during the next few days, which may help moderate temperatures as the southwest monsoon advances towards the state.
