A fresh spell of cold weather has returned to Odisha, sending temperatures sharply downward and disrupting normal life in several districts. Jharsuguda emerged as the coldest location in the state, with the mercury dropping to 6°C, signalling intense cold wave conditions.
By 5:30 am, Jharsuguda town recorded 6.8°C, while other districts also experienced a noticeable dip in minimum temperatures. According to the Meteorological Department, Keonjhar reported a low of 9.4°C, Chandbali recorded 12.2°C, and both Bhubaneswar and Paradip registered minimum temperatures of 12.4°C.
Weather officials attributed the renewed chill to a strong inflow of cold and dry air from north-western and northern regions, resulting in bone-chilling conditions across much of the state.
Dense Fog Compounds Winter Challenges
Adding to the cold wave, dense fog has significantly affected southern Odisha, particularly Kandhamal district, where visibility has dropped to just a few metres in several areas. The fog has made commuting hazardous, with roads barely visible, especially in hilly regions, where the impact of low temperatures is more severe.
Residents and commuters are facing difficulties during early morning hours, and authorities have urged caution while travelling amid reduced visibility.
Daily Life Hit as Temperatures Plunge
The extreme cold has disrupted daily routines across Odisha. While many people continue to work outdoors despite the harsh conditions, others are seen seeking warmth by lighting fires or beginning their mornings with hot beverages to cope with the biting cold.
Authorities are closely monitoring the evolving weather situation as winter conditions intensify once again across the state.
