Bhubaneswar: Intense heatwave conditions continue to grip several parts of Odisha, throwing normal life out of gear. The state capital, Bhubaneswar, recorded 41 degrees Celsius by 2:30 PM on Wednesday.

According to the Regional Meteorological Centre, Jharsuguda emerged as the hottest place in the state, registering a scorching 44.4 degrees Celsius. Sambalpur followed at 43.2 degrees Celsius, while Hirakud recorded 43 degrees Celsius.

Rourkela and Keonjhar reported temperatures of 41 degrees Celsius and 40.2 degrees Celsius, respectively. Coastal areas saw relatively lower temperatures, with Chandbali at 39.6 degrees Celsius and Balasore at 37.6 degrees Celsius.

Classes in schools suspended

Amid the rising temperatures, district administrations in several parts of the state have announced the temporary suspension of school classes.

The Sundargarh district administration has ordered the closure of all schools, from Class I to Class XII, including private institutions, from April 23 to April 27.

Similarly, authorities in Kendrapara and Koraput have declared school closures from April 23 to April 25, while schools in Sambalpur will remain shut from April 23 to April 27.

In addition, the state’s Revenue and Disaster Management Department has decided to suspend census-related activities during peak heat hours. Fieldwork will remain halted between 11 AM and 3 PM to safeguard staff from extreme weather conditions.