IMD warns of rising temperatures in Odisha from March 1

Bhubaneswar, Feb 24: The temperature in Odisha is set to rise sharply from March 1, with some interior regions expected to experience highs of 37-38°C, marking the onset of an early summer. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Bhubaneswar has forecasted that the capital city itself may reach 37°C on the same day.

On Sunday, several areas in the state recorded rising temperatures. Paralakhemundi registered 36°C, while Malkangiri followed closely at 35.6°C. Other districts, including Balangir, Sambalpur, and Jharsuguda, witnessed temperatures ranging from 34-35°C. Bhubaneswar recorded a temperature of 33.3°C, indicating a gradual increase in heat across the state.

Meanwhile, certain coastal and northern parts of Odisha, including Bhadrak, Chandbali, and Balasore, received light rainfall, providing temporary relief from the heat. However, IMD has issued a weather alert predicting heavy rain and thunderstorms in eight districts, namely Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Keonjhar, Angul, Dhenkanal, Nayagarh, Ganjam, and Gajapati.

Authorities have advised residents in these regions to take precautions, remain indoors during thunderstorms, and stay updated on weather forecasts. In the last 24 hours, the temperature in cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Sambalpur also dropped slightly due to cloudy conditions.