Heatwave to turn Western Odisha into hot cauldron

Bhubaneswar: Western Odisha braces for extreme heat as temperatures may soar to 45°C in several areas over the next five days.

Jharsuguda, Titilagarh, and Balangir are expected to record the highest temperatures, while other western districts may experience heat above 42°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that western Odisha will continue to face intense heat conditions. Coastal and southern regions will remain comparatively cooler but humid. Residents across Titilagarh, Balangir, and Jharsuguda reported scorching afternoons and rising discomfort levels.

Meanwhile, the IMD issued a thunderstorm and lightning warning for Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati, Rayagada, and Ganjam districts. These areas may witness light rainfall accompanied by gusty winds under the influence of the Kalbaishakhi system.

On Monday, 14 cities across Odisha recorded temperatures above 40°C. Titilagarh registered 42.5°C, Jharsuguda 42.4°C, and Bhawanipatna, Balangir, and Angul crossed 41°C. Meteorologists advised people to avoid outdoor activities during peak hours and stay hydrated.