Bhubaneswar: With mercury hovering above 40 degree Celsius in at least nine places, the Meteorological department has predicted that intensifying heat wave conditions will prevail for the next two days in Odisha. Heat wave warning has been issued in ten districts of the State while people in these areas were asked to take strict precautionary measures to avoid sunstroke. They have also been asked not to come out during a certain time when conditions are extreme.
According to official sources, Western Odisha reeled with mercury level above 40 degrees Celsius in as many as eight places. Titlagarh remained the hottest place at 45.5 degree C, followed by Bolangir with 44 degree C and Malkangiri 43.4 degree C. The twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack also sizzled at 38 degree C and 37.7 degree C due to severe heat wave conditions.
Meanwhile, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Bishnupada Sethi informed that heat wave conditions will prevail till May 22 in Odisha, as such the district collectors have been asked to make provisions for drinking water kiosks and other facilities. He however said that the officials are yet to receive reports on sunstroke deaths.
"Heat wave alert has been issued in several districts of Western Odisha. The conditions will prevail till 8:30PM on May 22. We have also informed BSNL users in those areas through SMS alerting them not to come out in the hot sun. Even the district administrations have been directed to take measure in this regard. Rescheduling work hours is another concern that is being looked upon," informed Sethi.