​​​​Athagarh, May 15: As temperatures soar past 40°C across several cities in the state, both humans and wildlife are struggling to cope with the relentless heat. While people seek relief from the sweltering summer, the state’s fauna is also facing the brunt of the soaring mercury.

In a rare and heartwarming sight, nine elephants were spotted enjoying a playful water bath at Nuagadbandha in Tigiria, Athagarh range.

The gentle giants were seen wading, rolling, and splashing in the water, using their trunks to spray themselves and each other, in a natural bid to beat the scorching heat.

The sight of the elephants frolicking in the water offers a refreshing pause amid the harsh summer conditions, serving as a reminder of how wildlife adapts to the season. Observers say such moments are rare and provide a small but uplifting respite, highlighting the joys of nature even in extreme weather.