Odisha is currently facing an intense heat wave with temperatures soaring to alarming levels across the state. According to OdishaTV, Bhubaneswar recorded the season’s highest temperature of 40.4°C by 2:30 PM on a Sunday in mid-May 2025.
India Meteorological Department (IMD) regional centre head Manorama Mohanty warns that temperatures will likely rise further by 2-3 degrees Celsius in the next three days, potentially breaking records.
Districts Facing the Brunt of Rising Temperatures
The heat wave is particularly severe in Western Odisha, where districts like Bolangir, Bargarh, Nuapada, Jharsuguda, and Sundargarh face the highest risk. “The day temperatures in most parts of Odisha could remain above normal during May.
However, in Western Odisha, the probability of heat is more,” explained Manorama Mohanty. The IMD predicts that 22 isolated pockets across the state will experience temperatures equal to or above 40°C, with no significant relief expected after the initial three-day spike.
Historical Pattern Shows Worsening Heat Conditions
| Region | Heat Wave Days (40°C+) | Time Period |
|---|---|---|
| Western Districts (Nuapada, Bolangir, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Jharsuguda) | 75-103 days | Summer months, 2019-2023 |
| Angul District | 25-50 days | Summer months, 2019-2023 |
| Entire Odisha | 37 days (as reported by ETV Bharat) | 2024 |
| Entire Odisha | 27 days (as reported by Down To Earth) | March 1 – June 9, 2024 |
The troubling data from SwitchON Foundation reveals that parts of Odisha have experienced increasingly frequent extreme temperatures over recent years, highlighting a concerning trend that meteorologists are monitoring closely.
Government Response and Infrastructure Concerns
In response to climate challenges, Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister has launched an initiative to power government buildings with solar panels and encourage officials to use electric vehicles. This program will begin in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, aiming to reduce pollution and promote sustainable practices.
- Building Damage: The severe heat is causing visible damage to buildings and city structures across Odisha as materials expand in extreme heat and contract during cooler periods.
- Structural Weakening: Experts warn that repeated cycles of heating and cooling will gradually weaken building integrity, potentially leading to significant infrastructure problems.
- Sustainability Measures: The solar panel initiative represents a first step toward climate adaptation, addressing both energy needs and environmental concerns.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for More Heat
With no immediate relief in sight, residents must prepare for potentially record-breaking temperatures. The IMD continues monitoring maximum day temperatures through their network of weather stations. The increasing frequency of heat waves—from 27 days between March and June 2024 to the current situation—suggests Odisha may need to develop long-term adaptation strategies beyond immediate responses.
