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Why 37°C Can Feel Like 52°C: IIT Bhubaneswar Scientist Explains Odisha's Hidden Heat Threat

  • Writer: ALANKITA NAG
    ALANKITA NAG
  • 6 days ago
  • 1 min read

An interactive session on "Heatwaves, Health Risks and Weather Reporting" was organized by the Press Club of Odisha, Socratus Foundation for Collective Wisdom, Odisha Environment Congress & Asar Social Impact Advisors in Bhubaneswar on May 27, 2026. During the session, Dr. Debadatta Swain, Associate Professor at the School of Earth, Ocean and Climate Sciences, IIT Bhubaneswar, explained the difference between actual temperature and "felt" temperature. He highlighted how high humidity prevents sweat from evaporating efficiently, making it harder for the body to cool itself. As a result, temperatures that appear manageable on paper can become dangerously stressful for human health, causing increased palpitations and a higher risk of heatstroke. He also highlighted the importance of understanding wet bulb and dry bulb temperatures. Prof. Swain further linked rising urbanization, shrinking green spaces, increased use of air-conditioners, and expanding concrete surfaces to intensifying heat and warmer nights in cities.


Interactive Session at Press Club of Odisha on HeatWave Risks, Community Goivernance, & Media Responsibility (Source: Odishabarta)
Interactive Session at Press Club of Odisha on HeatWave Risks, Community Goivernance, & Media Responsibility (Source: Odishabarta)

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