The scorching heatwave in Odisha has taken a severe toll on human lives, with the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) confirming 26 deaths attributed to sunstroke.
· Out of the 42 reported sunstroke deaths on May 30, six have been officially confirmed, while another six were found to be caused by factors unrelated to sunstroke.
· The cumulative figures for this summer paint a dire picture, with a total of 141 alleged sunstroke death cases reported by District Collectors.
· In eight areas, the mercury surged beyond 40°C, with Titilagarh topping the charts at a scorching 42.5°C., on Sunday.
· The regional center of the IMD has issued a stern warning, stating that the heatwave conditions are likely to persist for at least another five days in Odisha.
The scorching heatwave in Odisha has taken a severe toll on human lives, with the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) confirming 26 deaths attributed to sunstroke. As the mercury continues its relentless climb, 107 suspected cases are currently under investigation, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
In the latest update provided by the SRC on Sunday, the grim reality of the heatwave’s impact was laid bare. Out of the 42 reported sunstroke deaths on May 30, six have been officially confirmed, while another six were found to be caused by factors unrelated to sunstroke. Over the past 72 hours, District Collectors have reported a staggering 99 alleged cases of sunstroke deaths. Through meticulous post-mortem examinations and joint probes, 20 cases have been confirmed as sunstroke-related, while two were dismissed as non-sunstroke deaths.
The cumulative figures for this summer paint a dire picture, with a total of 141 alleged sunstroke death cases reported by District Collectors. Of these, 26 have been confirmed as sunstroke-related fatalities, while eight were attributed to other causes. However, the investigation is far from over, with 107 cases still pending scrutiny by District Collectors.
As temperatures soar to unbearable levels across the state, 26 locations in Odisha recorded maximum temperatures exceeding 37°C on Sunday. In eight areas, the mercury surged beyond 40°C, with Titilagarh topping the charts at a scorching 42.5°C. Bolangir and Sonepur experienced sweltering temperatures of 42.3°C, while Boudh sizzled at 42.1°C. Even in the coastal areas, where relief from the heat is often sought, Bhubaneswar recorded a high of 38.3°C, while Cuttack witnessed temperatures of 36°C.
The regional center of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stern warning, stating that the heatwave conditions are likely to persist for at least another five days in Odisha. Interior regions are expected to bear the brunt of the blistering heat, while coastal areas will remain uncomfortably hot and humid. In light of these forecasts, authorities urge residents to take precautionary measures to safeguard themselves against heat-related illnesses, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated and seeking shade during peak daytime hours. As the state braces for more scorching days ahead, vigilance and preparedness remain paramount in mitigating the impact of the ongoing heatwave.
(With inputs from agencies)
