Bhubaneswar: Extreme heatwave conditions continued to scorch Odisha as at least 21 places in the state recorded temperatures of 40°C or above on Wednesday.
As the western region virtually turned into a boiling cauldron, Jharsuguda emerged as the hottest place in the state, recording a scorching 46°C. Sambalpur followed closely at 45.3°C, while Hirakud recorded 45°C, according to the data shared by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The other places that recorded 40°C and above are: Sonepur 43.9°C, Bargarh 43.8°C, Talcher 43.8°C, Titilagarh 43.5°C, Balangir 43.3°C, Sundergarh 42.8°C, Angul 42.1°C, Nayagarh 42°C, Nuapada 41.5°C, Rourkela 41.3°C, Kendujhar 40.7°C, Baripada 40.7°C, Kendrapada 40.2°C and Bhadrak 40°C.
The weather agency said that heatwave, hot and humid and warm night conditions are likely to prevail over the state during May 20 to 24. Orange and yellow warnings of hot, warm and humid conditions were issued for various districts, particularly those in the western region, for the next five days.
The severe heatwave has affected normal life, with experts warning of health risks especially for outdoor workers, elderly people, and children.
People have been advised to avoid direct exposure to the sun between 11 am and 4 pm, stay hydrated, and wear light coloured loose clothes.
