Bhubaneswar: Western Odisha is reeling under severe heatwave conditions, with temperatures soaring across the state. By 11:30 am today, the temperature had already reached 38°Celsius, with several places recording even higher temperatures.
According to the latest data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Sambalpur recorded the highest temperature of 38.8°C, followed by Jharsuguda at 38°C and Hirakud at 37.4°C.
The heatwave conditions are expected to continue for the next few days, with the weather department issuing a warning for severe heatwave conditions in western Odisha.
According to the weather forecast, heatwave conditions are likely to prevail in Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Sonepur, Balangir, Boudh, and Kalahandi on Saturday. The temperature in Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Balangir, Titlagarh, and Sonepur is expected to touch 43 degrees Celsius.
In coastal Odisha, including Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, the temperature is likely to remain between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius.
The heatwave has disrupted normal life in Western Odisha, with people avoiding outdoor activities during the peak sun hours. The state government has meanwhile advised people to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.