As summer intensifies, Odisha is heading toward a fresh wave of rising temperatures, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting a noticeable 2°C to 4°C increase starting May 8, 2025.
This comes after a brief period of relief when some regions saw a slight drop in temperature over the past 24 hours. But that cool spell is about to end.
Cities Set to Sizzle
Several parts of interior and western Odisha are expected to hit 40°C or more. The IMD has flagged the following districts as likely hot zones:
- Sundargarh
- Jharsuguda
- Bargarh
- Sambalpur
- Sonepur
- Boudh
- Balangir
- Titlagarh
And by May 9, Deogarh, Nayagarh, and Angul are also expected to join this list, with daytime highs reaching around 41°C.
This surge in temperature raises the risk of heat stress, especially for children, the elderly, and those working outdoors. Health officials advise limiting exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours (12 PM–4 PM), staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activities.
Thunderstorms to Accompany the Heat
While the heat intensifies, unstable weather patterns are also expected to bring thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds to parts of the state.
The IMD has issued a yellow warning (a moderate alert) for Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Nabarangpur, Koraput, Malkangiri, and Sambalpur. These areas may experience:
- Lightning strikes
- Winds gusting up to 30–40 kmph
Between May 6 and 7, the stormy weather is expected to spread across much of the state, with stronger winds of 40–50 kmph likely in:
- Koraput
- Malkangiri
- Rayagada
- Gajapati
- Ganjam
- Mayurbhanj
- Keonjhar
This combination of heat and storms could lead to power outages, fallen trees, or travel disruptions, especially in hilly or forested zones.
What does this mean for Odisha?
- Farmers may need to prepare for unpredictable weather—heat may affect crops, while lightning and wind can damage standing crops.
- Students and workers commuting daily should take precautions for both heat exhaustion and sudden rainfall.
- Local authorities are likely to increase surveillance for heatstroke cases and may consider school or work hour adjustments in high-risk zones.
How to Stay Safe?
- Drink plenty of water even if you’re not thirsty.
- Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day.
- Secure loose objects like tarpaulins or temporary shelters due to high winds.
- Stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid metal objects or open fields.
