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Odisha continues to reel under a prolonged spell of intense heat, with temperatures and humidity levels remaining unrelenting. Unfortunately, the latest weather forecast predicts that the monsoon is unlikely to progress further in the state until mid-June.
Owing to low-pressure systems in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, the SW monsoon had made an onset over Kerala and eventually Odisha, over a week earlier than usual. However, with no further progress, meteorologists say the oppressive conditions are likely to persist across the state until the Raja festival, offering little respite for now.
Scorching Days Return as Skies Clear
According to weather reports, following a brief spell of rainfall last week, much of Odisha is now experiencing cloudless skies, leading to a sharp rise in daytime temperatures.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes this surge to the retreat of early monsoon currents that had initially brought scattered showers to parts of the state.
Today, Bhubaneswar soared past 33 degree Celsius, reaching 33.4 degree Celsius by 8:30 AM. The city is experiencing sultry conditions due to a humidity level of 67.2%. Balasore recorded the highest temperature at 34.8 degree Celsius, followed by Puri at 34.6 degree Celsius, Chandbali at 33.4 degree Celsius, and Paradip at 32.8 degree Celsius.
On Monday, Bhubaneswar recorded 39.4 degree Celsius by 2:30 PM, while Balasore hit 38.4 degree Celsius. Cities like Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Hirakud, and Chandbali also reported temperatures hovering close to or above 38 degree Celsius. The oppressive combination of heat and humidity strained daily life, particularly in urban centres.
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Kalbaisakhi Rains in Interior Pockets
Though coastal Odisha continues to suffer from extreme heat, interior districts like Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Keonjhar, and Sundargarh may witness Kalbaisakhi thunderstorms, providing temporary relief.
However, IMD officials caution that these are isolated events and unlikely to lower overall temperature trends significantly.
Monsoon Delay Extends Discomfort
Weather experts say the monsoon, which had initially touched parts of southern Odisha, has now stalled due to weakening currents. It is now expected to resume after Raja, the traditional Odia festival that falls in mid-June.
The delay in sustained monsoon activity has created a vacuum, allowing heatwave conditions to intensify, and this situation could continue for another week or more, said IMD reports.
