Odisha continued to remain under the grip of an intense heatwave on Tuesday, with several districts recording extremely high temperatures and residents struggling to cope with the scorching weather conditions.
Hirakud emerged as one of the hottest places in the state after recording a blistering 44°C by mid-afternoon. Jharsuguda followed closely at 43.8°C, while temperatures in Sambalpur also crossed the 43°C mark.
The severe heatwave conditions disrupted normal life across many parts of the state. Streets and marketplaces that usually remain crowded witnessed lower footfall during the afternoon hours as people preferred staying indoors to avoid exposure to the extreme heat.
Residents Take Precautions Amid Rising Temperatures
People across the affected districts were seen taking precautionary measures to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses. Many residents increased their intake of water and cooling beverages, sought shade during peak daytime hours and adjusted their daily routines to avoid stepping outdoors unnecessarily.
The ongoing heatwave has also raised concerns regarding public health, especially for vulnerable groups including children, senior citizens and outdoor workers.
Ministry Of Ayush Issues Heatwave Advisory
Amid rising temperatures across the country, the Ministry of Ayush has issued a detailed public advisory on safety measures during extreme heat and heatwave conditions.
The advisory urges citizens to:
- Stay adequately hydrated
- Avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak afternoon hours
- Wear light cotton clothing
- Consume seasonal fruits and electrolyte-rich fluids
The ministry also warned people to remain alert for symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, headache, nausea, dehydration, fainting, seizures, altered mental status and unusually high body temperature.
Heatstroke has been identified as a serious medical emergency, and citizens have been advised to immediately contact emergency helplines 108 or 102 in severe cases.
Vulnerable Groups Need Extra Care
According to the advisory, infants, children, pregnant women, elderly persons, outdoor labourers and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses such as heart disease and hypertension are particularly vulnerable during heatwave conditions and require special care and monitoring.
The advisory has been issued for the general public, employers, workers and participants in outdoor events and gatherings to reduce the risk of heat stress and related illnesses.
Traditional Cooling Remedies Recommended
The Ministry of Ayush has also recommended several traditional wellness practices from Ayurveda, Siddha, Yoga, Unani and Homoeopathy systems to help people cope with extreme summer temperatures.
Citizens have been advised to consume cooling and hydrating beverages such as:
- Buttermilk
- Coconut water
- Lemon-based drinks
Traditional preparations including Nimbukaphala Panaka, Amra Prapanaka and Chincha Panaka have also been suggested to help regulate body temperature naturally.
Additionally, the ministry encouraged people to include cooling foods such as cucumber, watermelon, musk melon, lime, ash gourd and tomatoes in their daily diet during the summer season.
