Bhubaneswar, Apr 23: Bhubaneswar recorded a scorching 42°C at 1:30 pm on Thursday, with the capital city sweltering under intense summer heat.

The Regional Meteorological Centre has warned that Odisha will continue to face extreme heat for the next four days, with temperatures crossing 40°C in most districts.

Authorities have issued heatwave alerts for Khordha, Keonjhar, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Balangir districts over the next 24 hours.

In addition, a yellow alert has been declared for Ganjam, Gajapati, Nayagarh, Khordha, Puri, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar, warning of severe heat and hot winds.

Also read: School Holidays Extended Due to Heatwave

The Meteorological Centre has also predicted Nor’wester (Kalbaisakhi) thunderstorms in several districts including Nabarangpur, Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Kandhamal, Nayagarh, Khordha, Puri, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, and Keonjhar. These storms may bring lightning and gusty winds at speeds of 30-40 kmph during the afternoon hours.

The heatwave is expected to persist until April 27, with occasional thunderstorms offering brief respite.

Meanwhile, daily life has been severely disrupted. Streets remain deserted during midday as residents avoid stepping out in the blazing sun. Those who venture outdoors face scorching winds and oppressive humidity, leading to increased risk of dehydration and heatstroke.

With temperatures soaring and humidity dropping, Odisha is bracing for one of its harshest summer spells in recent years. The combination of heatwave and thunderstorms underscores the volatile weather conditions gripping the state.

Amid soaring temperatures across Odisha, district collectors in 13 regions have ordered the closure of all government and private schools until further notice. Officials emphasized that the decision prioritizes the safety of students, teachers, and staff.

Authorities also indicated that a broader decision regarding summer vacations across Odisha will be taken after reviewing the evolving weather situation.