IMD issues heatwave yellow warning till Sunday
Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow warning for several districts in Odisha, as a heat wave is set to sweep across the state starting Friday.The weather department has forecast a rise in maximum temperatures, with day temperatures expected to soar by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next three days, continuing until March 31.
The IMD bulletin predicts that the heat wave conditions will intensify during this period, affecting multiple districts. However, there is some relief in sight, as the IMD has also predicted light rain or a thundershower at one or two places, specifically in the districts of Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, and Bargarh, on April 2. Meanwhile, dry weather will likely prevail over the rest of Odisha.
On Thursday, Jharsuguda recorded the highest temperature in the state, with mercury touching 41.4°C. Other areas such as Hirakud (40.1°C), Sambalpur (40°C), and Rourkela (39.4°C) also experienced sweltering conditions. The state capital, Bhubaneswar, recorded a temperature of 38.8°C, while coastal town Chandbali also saw a high of 38.8°C. Keonjhar, in the northern part of the state, recorded a relatively cooler 37°C.
the Odisha government has instructed all district Collectors to take necessary measures to safeguard public health and ensure smooth distribution of foodgrains. A letter issued by the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department on Thursday, highlighted several precautionary steps for Fair Price Shops (FPS) and food distribution points to mitigate the impact of the intense summer heat.As temperatures soar across the state, the department emphasized the importance of adhering to a carefully regulated schedule for foodgrain distribution under the Public Distribution System (PDS). The guidelines stipulate that distribution should take place only during the cooler parts of the day, specifically between 7 AM and 10 AM, and 5 PM and 8 PM. This measure aims to minimize beneficiaries’ exposure to extreme heat.
In addition to adjusting operational hours, the department has recommended the setup of temporary shades at FPS points. This will provide shelter to beneficiaries as they collect their rations, offering protection from the harsh sun. To further ensure safety, adequate supplies of drinking water and Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) are to be made available at all FPS points and distribution centers.
The guidelines also emphasize the need for regulating foodgrain handling and lifting times to prevent workers and beneficiaries from being affected by the heat during the loading process. This apart, the department has advised that informational pamphlets and posters be displayed at FPS points and Regional Rationing Centers (RRCs) to raise awareness about heatwave precautions.Officials from the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department have been tasked with remaining vigilant and ensuring that these precautions are effectively implemented throughout the state.
