Bhubaneswar, Feb 26: Heat conditions are expected to intensify across the state over the next few days, with the Meteorological Centre forecasting a gradual rise in daytime temperatures. The maximum temperature is likely to increase by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius after the next three days.

In contrast, night temperatures are predicted to dip by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius within the next two days, bringing relatively cooler conditions after sunset.

Earlier this week, several parts of the state witnessed unseasonal rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms on Tuesday, while a few places recorded light rain with thunder on Wednesday. However, the weather department has indicated that conditions will remain predominantly dry in the coming days, with no immediate likelihood of rainfall.

On Wednesday, heat intensity rose slightly, with 11 locations recording maximum temperatures of 33°C or above. Jharsuguda reported the highest temperature at 35.8°C, followed by Sambalpur at 34.2°C and Hirakud at 34°C.

Temperatures of 33°C or more were also recorded in Talcher, Titlagarh, Sonepur, Bhadrak, Khordha, Jagatsinghpur and Rourkela.

While residents are experiencing rising heat during the day, relatively cooler conditions continue to prevail at night.