Orange Alert for Extreme Heatwave
· Affected Districts: Mayurbhanj, Angul, Nayagarh, Khurda, Cuttack.
· Daytime temperatures are expected to soar above 40°C in numerous areas.
· Immediate Precautions Advised
· Temperature Records Broken as Bhubaneswar, the state capital, registered a scorching temperature of 43.6°C, marking the highest recorded temperature of the season.
· In response to the heatwave forecast, the Odisha government has taken proactive measures, including the closure of all schools from April 18 to 20.
· A ‘yellow alert’ signifies a need for heightened vigilance, particularly among vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses.
Despite hopes for respite, Odisha continues to endure scorching temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Bhubaneswar has issued an orange alert for extreme heatwave conditions in 18 districts of the state, cautioning that the situation will persist for the next 48 hours.
The IMD’s forecast highlights Mayurbhanj, Angul, Nayagarh, Khurda, Cuttack, and other districts as hotspots of intense heatwave conditions. Similarly, a yellow alert has been issued for additional districts like Sonepur, Balangir, and Kalahandi.
The prevailing extreme heatwave is attributed to the influx of north-westerly /westerly dry air and high solar insolation. Daytime temperatures are expected to soar above 40°C in numerous areas, with some regions likely to witness mercury levels touching 45°C.
In response to the alarming forecast, authorities urge residents to take necessary precautions to combat the uncomfortable weather. This includes staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours, and seeking shelter in cool environments.
Bhubaneswar, the state capital, registered a scorching temperature of 43.6°C, marking the highest recorded temperature of the season. A total of 31 places reported maximum temperatures exceeding 40°C, exacerbating the heatwave’s impact.
Manorama Mohanty, Director of IMD Bhubaneswar, underscores the severity of the heatwave, emphasizing that 27 cities across Odisha are experiencing temperatures above 41°C. She anticipates severe heatwave conditions to persist until April 21, with coastal areas particularly prone to hot and humid weather.
Despite the grim forecast, there is a glimmer of hope for relief beyond April 21. Mohanty suggests that rain, lightning, thunder, and gusty winds are expected to bring respite from the scorching temperatures.
In response to the heatwave forecast, the Odisha government has taken proactive measures, including the closure of all schools from April 18 to 20. This precautionary step aims to ensure the safety and well-being of students amidst the challenging weather conditions.
A ‘yellow alert’ signifies a need for heightened vigilance, particularly among vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses. While the general public may find the heat tolerable, moderate health concerns persist during this alert phase.
As Odisha grapples with the relentless onslaught of extreme heat, concerted efforts from authorities and public awareness are crucial in mitigating the impact and safeguarding the well-being of all residents.
(With inputs from agencies)
