BHUBANESWAR: As mercury went on a decline over coastal Odisha, western districts have begun to feel the pinch of the scorching heat. Even the usually cooler Phulbani heated up with day temperature reaching a significant 41 degree C on Friday.
As many as 17 stations spread across the State reported 40 degree-plus temperature on the day indicating the grasp of the heat wave. However, it was the western and central Odisha which have begun to see the days getting warmer by the day.
Sonepur emerged as the hottest place recording 45.8 degree Celsius, closely followed by 45.7 degree C at Titlagarh. Maximum day temperature soared past 44 degree at Bhawanipatna, Balangir and Sundargarh. Even Malkangiri reported 44 degree C on the day.
Across the coastal belt, temperature dropped. Bhubaneswar reported 40.4 while seaside towns like Paradip, Puri and Gopalpur recorded a little above 30 degree C. Humidity levels, though, remained high.
The weather office said the temperature pattern is expected to remain same over next week and there will be no escape from the heat wave. Meanwhile, the sun stroke death toll has risen to 31.