Winter has finally arrived in Odisha, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures across several districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Bhubaneswar experienced a significant 4.6°C fall in minimum temperature over the past four days, marking the most noticeable cooling trend of the season.
As of 5:30 a.m. Monday, the minimum temperature in the state capital stood at 16.2°C, compared to 20.8°C on November 7.
Cold Winds Sweep Across Odisha
According to the IMD Meteorological Centre, cold and dry north-westerly winds have pushed temperatures down by 2–3°C in both day and night readings across many parts of the state.
Districts such as Koraput, Kandhamal, Sundargarh, Daringbadi, Phulbani, and Jharsuguda have seen the mercury dip below 15°C, signaling the firm arrival of winter conditions.
Meteorologists attribute this early chill to a persistent high-pressure system in northern India, which is channeling cold winds into Odisha.
Further Temperature Drop Predicted
The IMD forecast suggests that temperatures may fall by another 3–4°C over the next two to three days. However, officials clarified that a continuous cold wave is unlikely this year due to western wind influences moderating extreme lows.
Despite the chill being slightly more intense than last year, experts expect the winter duration to be shorter overall.
Locals Feel the Chill
In several towns, including Koida and Rourkela, residents were seen gathering around tea stalls early in the morning to warm up.
“We are all waking up late as the cold suddenly came, and temperatures dropped all of a sudden,” said a local from Koida.
Another added,
“We are feeling very cold and battling it with warm tea. Winter arrived almost 20 days late this year due to continuous rainfall and low-pressure conditions.
The Meteorological Centre expects the cold to persist throughout the week, especially during early mornings and nights. Bhubaneswar is projected to touch 17°C later this week, while interior regions could experience temperatures as low as 12–13°C.
Residents are advised to stay warm and take precautions against sudden temperature changes, especially children and the elderly.
