Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, April 10: This year’s summer will be relatively easier to bear than last year’s, the Met department here said Friday.
According to data released by the department, the city had recorded an all-time highest temperature of 45?C around 30 years back April 23, 1985. The mercury has gone down slightly over the years, with the city registering this summer’s highest temperature of 38?C recently.
Environmentalists believe widespread efforts to raise awareness on global warming and greenhouse gas effects are paying off. “People are much more aware now of the horrible consequences of global warming as they are planting trees, and are controlling the emission of greenhouse gases,” said Sailabala Padhi, director of Centre for Environmental Studies.
The city’s hottest April temperature was in 2010, at 43.6?C. In 2011, it dipped to 39.7?C while it went up by a couple of notches to 41.2?C in 2013 and further up to 42.8?C in 2014.
“There are erratic changes in weather system. Untimed rain, thundershower and squally weather have led to a dip in the maximum temperature in the city. This time the temperature may not cross the 40?C mark till April 20,” said Met director Sarat Sahu.
The weatherman however had a word of caution. “Though mercury may not rise sharply, humid conditions will still pose a threat of sunstroke. People should ensure precautionary measures such as staying hydrated throughout the day as well as at night. Avoiding going out during the day unless on urgent work and venturing out in the evening to catch the breeze will be a good idea,” Met director Sarat Sahu said.
Weather officials further predicted partly cloudy skies for the capital city and adjoining areas with chances of rain and thundershower Saturday. The maximum temperature may remain around 37?C in the city.
