Odisha continues to grapple with biting cold, as minimum temperatures dropped below 10°C in 10 towns over the past 24 hours, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre, Bhubaneswar. However, a slight easing of the chill was observed in western parts of the state, with night temperatures showing a marginal increase.
The hilly region of G. Udayagiri in Kandhamal district emerged as the coldest spot, recording a bone-chilling 5°C. Other locations that dipped below 10°C include Phulbani and Daringbadi at 6°C each, Koraput at 6.8°C, Semiliguda at 7.4°C, Chiplima at 8.8°C, Nabarangpur at 9°C, Bhawanipatna at 9.2°C, Angul at 9.6°C, and Jharsuguda at 9.8°C.
Light fog was reported in Rourkela, Koraput, Jharsuguda, and Bhawanipatna during the period. In western Odisha towns such as Rourkela, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Hirakud, and Bolangir, minimum temperatures ranged between 10°C and 12°C, marking a noticeable rise compared to previous days.
The intense cold is particularly felt in hilly and interior areas, continuing for the 10th consecutive day in several mountainous regions. Scientist Dr. Rajasree VPM from the Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre stated that dry weather will prevail across the state next week, with no significant change in overall conditions. No warnings have been issued for dense fog or rainfall.
North-westerly dry cold winds are the primary cause of the persistent low temperatures. The highest maximum temperature was recorded at Paralakhemundi at 30.6°C.
Since the withdrawal of the monsoon on October 1, 2025, Odisha has received 7% above-normal rainfall. Southern coastal and interior districts saw excess rainfall (over 60%), while rainfall distribution varied across other regions.
Light fog is likely in Sundargarh, Kandhamal, Koraput, and Jharsuguda districts over the next two days, potentially affecting visibility and travel, Dr. Rajasree added.
Residents are advised to take precautions against the cold, especially in vulnerable hilly areas.
