Winter has formally arrived in Odisha with temperatures plunging sharply across the state. The Twin Cities of Bhubaneswar and Kataka recorded minimum temperatures dropping well below 20°C, marking a clear onset of the cold season.
According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Bhubaneswar registered a minimum temperature of 18.9°C—which is 1.7°C below normal—while Cuttack recorded 17.6°C. The sudden drop in temperature has prompted residents to pull out winter attire, with light fog being noticed along roads during early morning and late-night hours.
Major Temperature Drops Across Districts
The cold wave is felt strongly across central, western, and southern Odisha:
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Similiguda (Koraput): Recorded 12.2°C, making it the coldest region in the state.
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Phulbani: Recorded 14°C, the lowest in the plains.
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Bhawanipatna & Daringbadi: Dropped to 15°C.
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Jharsuguda & Nabarangpur: Recorded 16°C.
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Kendujhar & Rayagada: Stood at 16.6°C and 17°C, respectively.
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Other regions: Balangir, Debagada, Paralakhemundi, and Hirakud also logged temperatures under 20°C.
IMD Advisory & Outlook
The Regional Meteorological Centre forecasts that the night temperature will likely decline by another 2°C to 4°C over the next 24 to 72 hours under dry weather conditions state-wide.
Health officials and weather experts have urged the public to take precautions, especially for children, the elderly, and vulnerable individuals. Farmers have also been advised to take protective measures for standing crops against the early cold spell.
