Bhubaneswar: A temporary spell of rain has brought partial relief from the scorching heatwave conditions gripping Odisha, particularly across parts of western Odisha such as Jharsuguda and adjoining districts, where temperatures dropped to nearly 34°C by 2:30 PM on Monday.

However, the respite appears short-lived.

While localized thunderstorms moderated temperatures in some pockets, vast stretches of the state continue to reel under oppressive heat and humidity. Sambalpur remained among the hottest locations in the state at nearly 44°C, while the Dhenkanal-Angul belt hovered around 42°C. The twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack recorded around 37.6°C during the afternoon hours.

What is intensifying discomfort, however, is the alarming “feels-like” temperature.

According to IMD observations, Sambalpur witnessed a heat index nearing 59.6°C, while Bhubaneswar and Cuttack experienced apparent temperatures exceeding 51°C — indicating severe hot-and-humid conditions despite comparatively lower actual temperatures.

Why Temperatures Suddenly Dropped in Some Areas

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has attributed the recent thunderstorm activity to a persistent north-south trough extending from south Bihar to north coastal Andhra Pradesh across Jharkhand and Odisha at around 1.5 km above mean sea level.

This trough is currently aiding localized convection, triggering rainfall and squally weather in isolated regions, particularly over western Odisha.

But meteorologists now believe the larger weather story is unfolding over the Bay of Bengal.

Bay System Under Watch

According to IMD synoptic analysis, a significant upper air cyclonic circulation has formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal between 3.1 km and 5.8 km above mean sea level and it persists.

Though not yet classified as a Low Pressure Area (LPA), meteorologists say the atmospheric structure is becoming increasingly favourable for further organization.

If the circulation sustains itself over the warm Bay waters over the coming days, it could gradually intensify into a low-pressure system during the first week of June.

What IMD Models Are Indicating

Latest IMD model runs indicate a strengthening cyclonic circulation pattern over the Bay, which is expected to enhance moisture transport toward Odisha’s coastline beginning June 2.

Forecast guidance suggests:

·        Low-level wind speeds over southern Odisha may increase to nearly 39–40 knots

·        Remaining parts of the state could witness winds of around 20–25 knots

·        Moisture-laden winds are likely to trigger a sharp rise in rainfall activity across Odisha

·        By June 4, models indicate the possibility of moderate to heavy rainfall over several coastal and interior districts.

Districts Likely to Witness Strong Weather Activity: Meteorological projections currently suggest:

Heavy Rainfall Likely

Malkangiri

Nabarangpur

Moderate Rainfall Expected

Koraput

Rayagada

Gajapati

Light Rainfall Possible Across Remaining Odisha

The strengthening wind flow may also generate squally weather conditions over parts of southern Odisha during the first week of June.

Heatwave May Ease Gradually

IMD’s latest bulletin indicates temperatures over interior and western Odisha are likely to fall by around 2–3°C over from May 27 as clouding and moisture increase.

Meteorologists believe Odisha is now entering a “transition phase” where pre-monsoon instability is gradually giving way to organized monsoon circulation.

Beginning of Monsoon Build-Up?

Weather experts describe the southwest Bay circulation as a “preparatory mechanism” for the southwest monsoon along the eastern coast.

The system is helping:

·        Enhance low-level moisture convergence

·        Organize wind flow over the Bay

·        Prime atmospheric conditions for monsoon advancement

While the circulation is currently driving pre-monsoon rain activity, it could also play a crucial role in determining the timing and stability of the monsoon’s onset over eastern India in the coming weeks.

For Odisha, the period beginning June 2 could mark the start of a significant weather transition — from punishing heat stress to a phase of gusty winds, widespread rainfall and evolving monsoon dynamics.

Also Read: Cyclone In June / Heatwave Relief From May 28: Bay of Bengal brewing Cyclone in June? Know its impact on Odisha, West Bengal and Monsoon 2026| Exclusive