Bhubaneswar, April 25: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an 'Orange' alert for several districts in Odisha as temperatures soar past the 40°C mark in many parts of the state.
Residents of Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Sonepur, Boudh, Bolangir, and Bargarh have been urged to remain on high alert and take necessary precautions, as these areas face the brunt of the heatwave.
Meanwhile, a ‘Yellow’ alert — a warning to stay watchful — has been issued for Kalahandi, Nuapada, Deogarh, and Angul districts.
Hot and humid conditions are expected to persist in coastal and nearby districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Khurda, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Keonjhar, and Dhenkanal.
IMD official informed that night temperatures would also remain high in parts of Sambalpur, Sundargarh, Bolangir, and Mayurbhanj, offering little relief after sunset.
The department has issued public advisories to avoid stepping out between 11 am and 3 pm, urging people to cover their heads with a wet cloth, hat, or umbrella if going outside is unavoidable. It also emphasized caring for livestock by ensuring they are kept in shaded areas with access to clean drinking water.
Health tips shared by the IMD include avoiding alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks, as they can lead to dehydration. People are also advised to steer clear of high-protein and stale food during this period.
On Wednesday, Jharsuguda topped the temperature chart at a scorching 45.4°C, followed by Titlagarh (44°C), and Boudh and Sambalpur at 43.8°C. At least 12 other locations in the state reported temperatures exceeding 40°C.
