Odisha Heatwave Turns Deadly, 3 Die as Temperatures Cross 45°C

Odisha continues to reel under an intense and prolonged heatwave , with the state officially confirming three deaths linked to heat-related incidents this month as temperatures remain dangerously high across several districts.

According to officials from the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) office , reports of 16 suspected sunstroke deaths have been received so far in May. Out of these, district authorities have confirmed three deaths caused by the extreme heat, while the remaining cases are still under examination.

The confirmed deaths were reported from the western Odisha districts of Bolangir, Sundergarh, and Sonepur , where temperatures have consistently hovered around 40 degrees Celsius and above over the past week. The scorching conditions have severely affected normal life, especially in western parts of the state that are witnessing dry winds and intense daytime heat.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that there will be no immediate relief from the severe weather conditions. Heatwave conditions are expected to continue in 26 out of Odisha’s 30 districts , with an orange warning issued for Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, and Bolangir for Saturday. The warning advises people to remain alert and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.

Several other districts, including Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Angul, Boudh, Balasore, Cuttack, Kalahandi, Ganjam, Puri, and Khurda , are also likely to experience intense heatwave conditions.

On Friday, at least 22 locations across Odisha recorded temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius , highlighting the intensity of the ongoing heat spell. Industrial town Jharsuguda emerged as the hottest place in the state with a maximum temperature of 45.2 degrees Celsius . Boudh recorded 44.5 degrees Celsius , while Sambalpur registered 44.2 degrees Celsius , according to IMD data.

The weather department has also forecast thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in several districts during the evening hours. However, officials said these weather activities are unlikely to bring any significant drop in temperatures.

Authorities have urged residents to avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions as Odisha battles one of its harshest heatwaves of the season.