odisha-schools-to-close-early-as-heatwave-grips-state

The Odisha government has announced the commencement of summer vacations in all schools across the state starting April 25, citing the prevailing heatwave conditions.

 

In response to the scorching temperatures, schools have been instructed to operate from 6:30 am to 10:30 am from April 22 to 24.

 

This decision follows a recent heatwave that gripped various parts of Odisha, with temperatures soaring above 43 degrees Celsius at ten locations, according to the India Meteorological Department.

 

Boudh, situated in western Odisha, and Baripada in the northern region, recorded the highest temperatures, both peaking at 45.2 degrees Celsius.

 

The weather department has issued an 'orange' warning, indicating severe heatwave conditions in isolated pockets of Odisha on April 21 and 22.

 

The warning extends to districts such as Mayurbhanj, Nayagarh, Angul, Boudh, Cuttack, and Keonjhar, where heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are anticipated.

 

Tragically, Odisha reported its first sunstroke death of the season a few days ago. Laxmikanta Sahu, aged 62 and a resident of Maheshpur in Balasore district, succumbed to sunstroke on April 15, according to officials from the Special Relief Commissioner's office. 

 

This marks the state's first sunstroke fatality this summer.