Bhubaneswar, 11 May (H.S.): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow Warning for Odisha as heatwave conditions are forecast to intensify across the state, with maximum temperatures expected to soar above 40°C in several districts over the next 24 hours.

According to the IMD’s latest mid-day weather bulletin, extreme heat is likely to prevail in parts of Bhubaneswar, Dhenkanal, Bargarh, Nuapada, Khordha, Rourkela, Sonepur, Nayagarh, Boudh, Paralakhemundi, Jajpur, Titlagarh, Balasore, Chandbali, Cuttack, Angul, Baripada, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Sundargarh, Bhawanipatna, and Bolangir.

Coastal and adjoining districts including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Ganjam, and Gajapati are expected to experience hot and humid conditions, adding to overall discomfort levels.

Despite the prevailing heat, the IMD has forecast light to moderate rain or thundershowers at isolated locations in the afternoon or evening, particularly in Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Bolangir, Nuapada, Nabarangpur, Koraput, Malkangiri, Mayurbhanj, and Kendujhar. The rest of the state is likely to remain dry.

In light of the forecast, the IMD has advised the public to take precautionary measures to avoid heat-related illnesses. Residents are urged to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, keep hydrated, and extend special care to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda