Odisha Heatwave continues: IMD predicts 45°C temperatures, schools closed
Odisha has been experiencing a severe heatwave, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting no immediate respite. The Met department has warned that the maximum daytime temperature could reach a scorching 45°C over the next 24 hours in several parts of the state.
Heatwave Conditions to Persist for Next 2-3 Days
According to the IMD, a heatwave prevailed in a few places in the coastal districts of Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapada, Khordha, Nayagarh, and Ganjam, as well as in one or two places in the interior districts of Mayurbhanj, Boudh, Dhenkanal, Nawarangpur, and Keonjhargarh on Saturday. Boudh recorded the highest maximum temperature at 44.3°C, while Phulbani in the plains of Odisha saw the lowest at 20.5°C.
Manorama Mohanty, director of IMD Bhubaneswar, stated that a heatwave has been prevailing in vast swathes of Odisha over the last four to five days, and the condition is expected to persist for the next two to three days. She said, “In 27 cities, the maximum temperature was recorded at more than 41°C. We have issued a heatwave warning for some areas over the next 24 hours. On April 21, the heatwave condition will continue to prevail mostly in coastal and interior Odisha.”
Schools Closed as Government Takes Precautionary Measures
In light of the IMD’s heatwave forecast, the Odisha government announced on Wednesday that all schools in the state would remain closed from April 18 to 20. This precautionary measure aims to protect students from the scorching heat and potential health risks
