IMD Warns of Heat Wave Conditions in Western Odisha on May 29 & 30
· Day Temperatures Likely to Rise By 2°C To 4°C Across Odisha During Next 2 Days
· While sporadic showers may offer temporary relief in certain pockets, the IMD has also warned of thunderstorms and lightning in select areas on Wednesday.
· Odisha SRC Urges Health Department to Be Prepared to Deal with Prevailing Heatwave Conditions
As the summer sun beats down relentlessly, Odisha finds itself grappling with an extended spell of scorching temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded the alarm, forecasting an impending heat wave across several districts of the state. Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Sonepur, Boudh, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Bolangir, and Nuapada are all bracing for soaring temperatures on May 29th and 30th, as per the latest IMD advisory. Additionally, hot and humid weather conditions are expected to prevail in Balasore, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapada, Cuttack, Khordha, Nayagarh, Puri, Ganjam, and Gajapati over the next two days.
The imminent heat wave poses significant challenges to public health and safety, necessitating swift and proactive measures to mitigate its impact. With temperatures projected to rise by 2°C to 4°C in various regions, coupled with escalating humidity levels, Odisha is bracing for uncomfortable living conditions until May 31st. Coastal areas like Paradip and Gopalpur have already witnessed humidity levels skyrocketing to 79%, exacerbating the discomfort caused by the relentless heat.
While sporadic showers may offer temporary relief in certain pockets, the IMD has also warned of thunderstorms and lightning in select areas on Wednesday. However, the promise of the southwest monsoon’s arrival, anticipated between May 31st and June 1st, provides a glimmer of hope for respite in the near future. Furthermore, the IMD’s optimistic forecast of an above-normal monsoon with 106% rainfall across the country augurs well for Odisha’s agricultural landscape and water resources.
Responding to the imminent weather challenges, Odisha’s Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), Satyabrata Sahu, has issued a clarion call to the state’s Health and Family Welfare Department, urging swift action to bolster health infrastructure and preparedness. Sahu emphasized the critical importance of reviewing and reinforcing medical supplies, particularly in Community Health Centers (CHC), Primary Health Centers (PHC), Sub Divisional, and District Headquarters Hospitals (DHHs). He stressed the importance of ensuring that healthcare facilities at all levels are adequately equipped to address heat-related illnesses, with a particular focus on stocking essential medicines and medical supplies.
Moreover, Sahu emphasized the critical role of community engagement and awareness in mitigating the adverse effects of extreme weather conditions. Sensitizing doctors and health workers at grassroots levels to effectively identify and manage heat-related health risks is paramount to ensuring the well-being of Odisha’s residents.
As Odisha braces itself for the onslaught of intense heat, the concerted efforts of government agencies, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders are imperative in safeguarding public health and safety. With proactive measures, community resilience, and effective coordination, Odisha stands poised to weather the heat wave and emerge stronger in the face of adversity.
(With inputs from agencies)
