Bhubaneswar: The city recorded the state's highest temperature, sizzling at 41.2°C, four degrees more than normal on Monday.

Nine other places recorded temperatures above 40°C.

While most business establishments downed shutters before noon, busy thoroughfares wore a deserted look owing to the heatwave conditions. "The mercury will hover around 40°C and is likely to rise further from April 21. However, a squall could provide relief at one or two places till Thursday," said regional meteorological centre director Sarat Chandra Sahu.

Both Balangir and Titilagarh registered temperatures of 41°C while Chandbali, Angul, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Hirakud, Talcher and Malkangiri all sizzled at above 40°C.

"The heat was unbearable in the afternoon. So most of us remained confined indoors. Despite the recent thunderstorms, the weather was extreme. We are expecting thunderstorms to bring some relief," said Bhubaneswar resident Renu Das.

Doctors advised citizens to drink sufficient water and cover their heads with wet clothes when outside. "People going out in the heat should carry water. If anyone feels uncomfortable, they need to find shades," said Arbind Chinara, a doctor.

The India Meteorological Department on Monday predicted normal monsoon in the county, bringing a ray of hope for farmers and citizens.