TNI Bureau: Odisha continues to grapple with intense summer conditions as 16 alleged heat wave-related deaths have been reported in the state so far this season, with three deaths officially confirmed, according to the Office of the Special Relief Commissioner.

Despite the rising temperatures, officials said the overall heat wave situation in the state remains under control. However, fresh warnings have been issued for severe heat wave conditions in several districts, while scattered thunderstorms are likely to bring some relief to parts of coastal and southern Odisha.

According to the latest forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department on May 22, light to very light rainfall was recorded at one or two places in Coastal and South Interior Odisha, whereas dry weather prevailed across North Interior districts.

The weather department has warned that severe heat wave conditions are very likely at isolated places in Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Bolangir and Nayagarh districts.

The IMD has also forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty surface winds with speeds reaching 40 to 50 kmph during the afternoon and evening hours in Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur and Cuttack districts.

Authorities have advised people to take necessary precautions against extreme heat and remain alert during thunderstorm activity.