Bhubaneswar, March 14: Intense heat is likely to grip Odisha in the coming days, with the state expected to witness severe summer conditions over the next two weeks. According to the extended forecast of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), daytime temperatures in most parts of interior Odisha may remain above 40°C till March 26.

The heat has already started intensifying in several districts. On Saturday, the maximum temperature crossed 40°C in Jharsuguda and Hirakud.

Among other places, Sambalpur recorded 39.9°C, while Sundargarh reported 39.5°C. The temperature stood at 38.8°C in Rourkela and Bargarh, while Bhawanipatna and Titlagarh recorded 38.5°C.

In comparison, coastal areas recorded relatively lower temperatures, with Bhubaneswar registering 34.2°C and Cuttack 34°C.

However, strong sunshine and rising heat were felt across most parts of the state during the afternoon hours, indicating that the heatwave conditions may intensify further in the coming days.