Bhubaneswar, April 2: The state is experiencing scorching heat and high humidity with mercury levels rising to above 40 degrees Celsius at most places. People are facing extreme difficulties in stepping outside. To make things worse, the weatherman has predicted a further rise in temperature till at least April 5.

Various parts of the state are experiencing temperatures varying between 37°C and 42°C as the blazing sun beats down.

A sudden rise in temperature has thrown a spanner in the lives of residents. Even accessories such as umbrellas, sunglasses and scarves are not being able to cope with the combination of hot winds and humid conditions working in tandem.

Afternoons in the capital wear a deserted look as most people prefer to stay indoors to avoid the uncomfortable temperatures outside.

"A heat wave will begin shortly. It can be sensed already in the present conditions. Going out for work has become challenging in this heat," said Priyanka Rout, a corporate employee in the capital.

The temperatures in the interiors and west Odisha are higher compared to even the coastal belt. Today, Bhubaneswar and Cuttack experienced temperatures of about 38 degrees Celsius whereas Balangir sizzled with recording the state's highest temperature 42°C.

Titilagarh, which usually experiences the most searing heat in the state, registered 41.6 °C on the scale today. With the Met department predicting temperatures to go further up in the next few days, morning schools that began today turned out to be a saviour for students.

Morning schools have brought forward class timings with the classes being held between 6am and 10.30am. The school and mass education department has instructed both private and state-run schools to shut before 11am. Mid-day meals will have to be served by 10am now at the government schools.

"It will be easier for us to reach home before noon when temperatures are at its peak," said Class-IX student Prateik Samantray.

With people looking for ways to beat the heat, lassi and cold drink kiosks that have mushroomed across Bhubaneswar are making brisk business. Cool water is also being served along the streets by local groups as part of social service programmes.

Regional meteorological centre director Sarat Chandra Sahu said: "The uncomfortable conditions will prevail until April 5 with almost the entire state experiencing temperatures over 40°C in the next couple of days. But from April 6 to 8, the weather will be better and more windy," he said.