Odisha Sunstroke deaths increases to 19 as Mercury soars to record 45.8 degree Celsius high in Bhubaneswar

11 April, Bhubaneswar

Panic gripped the residents of the Odisha capital Bhubaneswar Monday as the mercury shot up to 45.8 degree Celsius, an all-time high in the month of April.

The previous highest temperature recorded in the capital city was 45 degrees way back on April 23, 1985.

According to Bhubaneswar Regional Met Centre data, as many as 17 places in the state have recorded temperatures above 40 degree Celsius today.

Tthe Regional Met office Director Sarat Chandra Sahu said the temperature will rise further if the wind flow from the sea towards the surface does not set in early.

According to Special Commissioner’s office the number of alleged sunstroke deaths sharply shot up to 19 including 3 deaths reported today.

Unprecedented conditions have gripped Odisha as mercury continued its upward march. With no sign of system-based rain in sight, the State could well be heading for another year of staggering heat.

The high temperature increased the discomfort index and most people across the state, preferred to stay indoors.

In order to tackle sunstroke cases, the administration has opened a special wards at district hospitals adequately equipped to tackle the extra rush of patients.