Bhubaneswar, May 25: Odisha is facing a severe heatwave with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing red, orange, and yellow alerts across several districts for the next three days.

The state has been gripped by scorching temperatures, with Titilagarh recording a maximum of 45.8°C in the past 24 hours, while 18 districts reported temperatures above 41°C.

According to IMD, Sambalpur, Balangir, and Boudh districts have been placed under a red alert for extreme heat conditions.

Jharsuguda, Sonepur, Kalahandi, and Nuapada are under orange alert, while Kandhamal and Bargarh have been issued a yellow alert. Sambalpur and Balangir also face warnings of unusually warm nights, adding to the discomfort.

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The IMD has further cautioned that 18 western and coastal districts will experience hot and humid conditions.

In addition, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds ranging between 40-60 kmph are expected in 21 districts including Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati, Khordha, Cuttack, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Balasore, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj.

These districts have been placed under yellow alert for thunderstorm activity.

The IMD has predicted that the heatwave will continue until May 29, while thunderstorm activity is likely to persist until May 31.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea on May 28 and 29 as strong winds of 40-60 kmph are expected along the northern coastal areas of Odisha.

The combination of scorching daytime temperatures, warm nights, and thunderstorm risks has created challenging conditions across the state. Authorities have urged residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses, avoid outdoor activities during peak hours, and stay hydrated.