Hotter days are ahead. Nights will be warmer too. The weather office on Tuesday said average day temperature will rise by one to two degree Celsius beginning Wednesday and remain so for a week.
Indicating that the summer is setting in and promises to be gruelling, the India Meteorological Department said the change in wind flow pattern will bring in hotter days and warmer nights. By March 10/11, the temperature will rise further, it added.
Currently, the average day temperature across the State has been in the range of 35 degree Celsius to 36 degree Celsius except for Puri and Paradip where the mercury hovers around 29 degree Celsius.
Director IMD, Odisha SC Sahu said for the last three to four days, the day temperature had dropped a little because the north-north-westerly wind, which was warm and not hot, caused advection of heat. In view of the clear sky conditions, the radiational cooling took place faster too. “This explained why the day temperature was about 35-36 degree and night was cooler than normal. However, things will change,” he said.
By around March 10/11, the south-westerly wind is likely to prevail. Since this flows over the Telangana and Rayalseema, hot air will raise the day temperature across most parts of coastal and Central Odisha. Maximum temperature is likely to rise close to 38 and 39 degree Celsius. The rising temperature trend will continue over the fortnight.
However, the only solace is that during the second fortnight, thunderstorm activities may occur in some parts of the State. “Since dry and clear sky will prevail, conditions will favour thunderstorm activities,” Sahu informed. Currently, there is a patch of cloud over Koraput but it is unlikely to cause any shower since the mass will move over to Bay of Bengal.
On Tuesday, Malkangiri remained the hottest place with maximum day temperature reading 37.5 degree. Along coastal pockets, Bhubaneswar recorded 36.3 degree Celsius. Central Odisha town Talcher 36.3 degree whereas western pockets were relatively cooler with 34 degree Celsius.