Bhubaneswar, May 21: Large parts of Odisha, particularly the western region, continued to reel under intense heatwave conditions on Wednesday, with Jharsuguda recording the highest temperature of 41.8 degrees Celsius at 11:30 am, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Several other districts also witnessed soaring temperatures during the day. Sambalpur recorded 41.2°C, while Hirakud registered 40.6°C. Keonjhar reported 39.4°C, followed by Bhubaneswar at 38.4°C and Rourkela at 38.0°C.

The situation in Bhubaneswar turned particularly uncomfortable due to high humidity levels. The city recorded 38.4°C by 11:30 am, significantly higher than the 35.4°C registered at the same time on Tuesday. With relative humidity hovering around 56 per cent, the heat index or “feels-like” temperature touched nearly 53°C, making outdoor conditions extremely oppressive.

Health experts and authorities have advised people to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Special caution has been urged for children, elderly persons and outdoor workers, who remain most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses during the ongoing heatwave conditions.

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