Argus News - Odisha Braces for Heatwave as Mercury Climbs to 40°C

Bhubaneswar, Apr 11: Odisha is bracing for an intense spell of heat as the Regional Meteorological Centre has issued a yellow alert for coastal districts and adjoining areas from April 11 to 16.

Temperatures are expected to rise sharply, with western Odisha likely to touch 40°C, while coastal regions may hover between 35°C and 37°C.

The alert warns of severe discomfort due to hot and humid conditions, particularly in districts such as Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Khordha, Puri, Nayagarh, Ganjam, and Gajapati. Officials predict daytime temperatures will increase by 4-6°C during this period.

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Bhubaneswar and Cuttack are expected to witness temperatures climbing up to 37°C by April 14, with humidity levels around 75%, making conditions oppressive.

The Special Relief Commissioner’s office has directed all district administrations to take precautionary measures and advised residents to avoid outdoor exposure between 11 AM and 3 PM.

On April 13 and 14, western districts including Sambalpur, Balangir, and Bargarh are likely to experience heatwave conditions. The Meteorological Centre has cautioned that strong, dry winds will sweep across interior Odisha, creating a stark difference between day and night temperatures.

Meanwhile, the possibility of Nor’wester (Kalbaisakhi) storms has diminished for the next 24 hours. However, the forecast suggests light rain accompanied by thunder may occur in isolated areas on Sunday and Monday.

On Friday, eight locations across the state recorded temperatures above 37°C, with Boudh at 39°C, Titlagarh at 38.5°C, Hirakud at 38°C, and Nuapada at 38°C. Meteorologists warn that conditions will worsen in the coming days, urging people to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions.