Odisha continued to witness a sharp dip in temperatures as the state recorded its coldest morning of the season, accompanied by widespread fog. The Bhubaneswar Regional Meteorological Centre has forecast that the severe cold spell is likely to persist for several more days. With visibility dropping significantly, authorities have advised commuters to avoid driving during early hours and to follow safety precautions.
According to weather officials, the minimum temperature fell to 4°C on Sunday, marking the lowest temperature recorded this winter. In Kandhamal district, G. Udayagiri reported a minimum of 4.4°C. Ten locations across Odisha recorded temperatures below 10°C, including Semiliguda (6.1°C), Rourkela (7.2°C), Daringbadi (7.5°C), Jharsuguda (7.6°C) and Phulbani (8°C).
Dense Fog Severely Affects Visibility
A thick layer of fog blanketed many regions, with severely dense fog reported from Binika in Sonepur district along NH-126 on Monday morning. Commuters expressed concern over reduced visibility, noting increased risks of road accidents and disruptions to daily travel.
To stay warm amid the biting cold, residents gathered around local tea stalls and lit roadside bonfires. Many shared that the fog has been consistently dense for the past week, often lasting until 10 a.m. and affecting both mobility and outdoor routines.
One local resident said, “Every morning, the fog is so dense that it slows down vehicle movement. Our hands and feet go numb sometimes, and the fog often stays until late morning.”
With the cold wave expected to continue, officials are urging residents to use proper winter clothing, avoid unnecessary travel early in the day, and remain alert while driving.
