Bhubaneswar: After enduring a gruelling heatwave over the past 10 days, residents of Bhubaneswar finally got some respite on Thursday morning as the heat index plunged to a season-low of 27°C at 5:30 am, a dramatic 17°C drop from the peak recorded earlier this month.
According to data compiled for the period May 19–28 and shared by senior meteorologist Umasankar Das on X, the heat index in the state capital remained dangerously high for most days, frequently hove
ring between 40°C and 44°C. The highest heat index was recorded on May 22 at 44°C, making it the most oppressive morning of the period.
10-Day Heat Index Snapshot (5:30 AM)
Date Heat Index
28 May-27°C (Lowest)
27 May-42°C
26 May-42°C
25 May-40°C
24 May-39°C
23 May-42°C
22 May-44°C (Highest)
21 May-39°C
20 May-40°C
19 May-40°C
The sharp decline on May 28 has been attributed to the impact of Kaalbaisakhi (pre-monsoon showers). The capital city received mild, intermittent showers accompanied by strong winds, which brought down temperatures and provided welcome relief from the scorching heat. Power outages were reported in several areas.
This nearly 17°C drop in the heat index has provided major relief to citizens who had been struggling with extreme discomfort for over a week. The arrival of Kalbaisakhi is typical for this time of the year in Odisha and often marks a shift from the scorching summer toward the much-awaited rainy season.
However, residents have been advised to remain cautious as temperatures and heat index values may fluctuate in the coming days.