The regional center of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted that Tuesday’s high temperatures will soar even more, making life uncomfortable throughout Odisha. The meteorological office predicts that much of northern and coastal Odisha would see daytime temperatures between 3 and 4 degrees Celsius for the next four days.
Likewise, the temperature will rise by up to 6°C over average during the nights.
Keeping these in view, the IMD has issued a yellow warning for unbearable heat and humidity in nine districts – Boudh, Bolangir, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Sonepur, Bhadrak, Cuttack, Nayagarh, Jajpur, and Malkangiri till April 6.
In several places, the maximum temperature (day temperature) is likely to be around 39°C to 41°C in interior Odisha and around 37°C to 39°C in the coastal districts of Odisha during the next 4 to 5 days. At the same time, light rain and thunderstorms are expected in Bhadrak, Jajpur, Cuttack, Khurda, Nayagarh, Boudh, Kandhamal, and Sonepur districts.
The IMD has attributed the unusual weather to western disturbances, strong solar isolation, and a clear sky.
The IMD has released an advisory cautioning individuals to take preventative steps to avoid becoming sick from excessive heat and humidity given the skyrocketing temperatures around the state. The following are the advisory’s key points:
Avoid prolonged exposure to sun and heat
- Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, cotton clothes
- Cover your head with a wet cloth, hat or umbrella while going out during peak hours
- Drink sufficient water even if not feeling thirsty to avoid dehydration
- Use ORS, homemade drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), sugarcane juice, lemon water, buttermilk, etc. to re-hydrate the body
- Caution workers to avoid direct sunlight during the peak hours
- Schedule strenuous jobs to cooler times of the day
- Increase the frequency and length of rest breaks for outdoor activities
- Pregnant workers and workers with a medical condition should be given additional attention
- Recognise the signs of heat stroke, heat rash or heat cramps such as weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, sweating and seizures. If you feel faint or ill, see a doctor/ hospital immediately