A severe cold wave continues to grip Odisha, with several parts of the state experiencing extremely low temperatures and dense fog. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a five-day warning, stating that minimum temperatures are expected to remain largely unchanged across the state until the New Year.
Southern and western Odisha remain the most affected regions, where biting cold conditions combined with persistent fog are causing discomfort and disrupting early morning movement.
Minimum Temperatures Remain Low Across Odisha
According to IMD data, more than ten locations in Odisha recorded minimum temperatures below 10°C over the past 24 hours. The cold wave is particularly intense in interior districts, where night temperatures continue to fall sharply.
G. Udayagiri Coldest Place in the State
The Kandhamal district has emerged as the epicentre of the cold spell. G. Udayagiri recorded the lowest minimum temperature of 3.5°C, making it the coldest place in Odisha during the last 24-hour period.
Other cold pockets included:
-
Daringbadi: around 6°C
-
Phulbani: around 6°C
These areas are witnessing prolonged cold nights, adding to health and safety concerns, especially for older adults, children, and people with chronic illnesses.
Dense Fog Warning Issued for Multiple Districts
In addition to the cold wave, the IMD has warned of dense fog during morning hours in several districts, including:
-
Sundargarh
-
Sambalpur
-
Angul
-
Dhenkanal
-
Kalahandi
-
Kandhamal
-
Nayagarh
Intermittent foggy conditions are also likely in other parts of the state over the next five days. Reduced visibility has already been reported on highways and rural roads, affecting road transport during early morning hours.
No Immediate Relief Till December 31
Meteorological assessments indicate no significant improvement in night temperatures until December 31. IMD officials confirmed that cold wave conditions will persist across most districts during this period.
However, a slight rise of 2–3°C in minimum temperatures is expected from January 1 onwards, depending on changes in wind patterns and atmospheric circulation.
Residents are advised to take precautions during early morning and night hours, particularly while travelling in fog-prone areas.
