June 18 : Major parts of Odisha continue to sizzle under unprecedented heat wave condition and high level of humidity throwing normal life out of gear. As many as 22 places in Odisha on Sunday recorded maximum temperature above 40 degree Celsius and seven places recorded maximum day temperature above 45 degree Celsius, Sambalpur with 46 degree Celsius is the hottest place in the state followed by Sonepur (45.8), Hirakud and Boudh (45.5 each), Jharsuguda (45.2), Bolangir and Sundergarh 45 degree Celsius each. The capital city Bhubaneswar recorded a maximum day temperature of 41.6 and Cuttack reported 40..2 degree Celsius. Weather department here predicted that hot weather and Heat wave conditions is likely to prevail in some districts of Odisha for the next three days. The temperature will fall gradually by 3 – 5 degree Celsius thereafter at many places over the districts of Odisha. Maximum temperature is very likely to be above normal by 4 – 7 degree Celsius at a few places over the districts of Odisha during next 3 days. Consequently hot and discomfort weather likely during next 3 days . The MET office issued orange and yellow warning for heat wave at a few places in Keonjhar, Sundergarha, Sambalpur, Anugul, Dhenkanal, Jharsuguda, Baragarha, Deogarha, Sonepur, Bolangir, Kandhamal , Cuttack, Khordha and Nayagarha. People are advised to take precautionary measures like avoiding heat exposure during peak hours, staying hydrated and caring for vulnerable persons including old, children, sick, and pregnant women. So far, information has been received in respect of 20 cases regarding alleged death due to heatwaves. One death case has been confirmed so far from the district of Balasore. SRC office sources said the rest cases are being inquired by the Collectors. Ex-gratia assistance of Rs.50,000/- will be paid to the bereaved families in case of death due to heatwaves. Meanwhile MET office here predicted light to moderate rain or thunderstorm is likely to occur in some districts on Monday and thereafter more rain will occur and is likely to give respite from the scorching heat
