Heatwave Scorches Odisha; Talcher Records Season’s Highest at 40.2°C

Bhubaneswar: A severe heatwave continued to sweep across Odisha on Saturday, with several regions recording temperatures well above 35°C, turning large parts of the state into a virtual cauldron.

Talcher emerged as the hottest location, registering a scorching 40.2°C. Close behind were Jharsuguda and Paralakhemundi, both recording 40.0°C. Other areas also experienced intense heat, with Angul at 39.7°C, while Baripada, Sundargarh, Hirakud, and Bargarh each recorded 39.0°C. Bhadrak reported 39.3°C, followed by Bhubaneswar and Chandbali at 38.8°C each. Sambalpur recorded 38.4°C, while Cuttack registered 37.8°C.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), hot and humid conditions are expected to persist across many districts over the coming days. The department has advised residents, especially outdoor workers, children, and the elderly, to take precautions, avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, and stay hydrated.

The IMD has also forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds. Wind speeds of 40–50 kmph are likely at isolated places in Ganjam, Gajapati, and Rayagada districts within the next 24 hours. Additionally, thunderstorms with lightning and winds reaching 30–40 kmph are expected at isolated places in Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Puri, Khurda, Nayagarh, Sonepur, Boudh, Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Nabarangpur, Koraput, and Malkangiri.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as residents brace for continued extreme weather conditions.