Odisha is set to experience a sharp drop in night temperatures starting from Tuesday night, leading to heightened cold conditions across the state.
In the past 24 hours, seven cities have already recorded temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, signalling the onset of a colder spell accompanied by widespread fog.
Daringbadi registered the lowest temperature at 8.5 degrees Celsius, while other locations, including G Udayagiri, Semiliguda, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, and Rourkela, also dipped below the 10-degree mark. Dense fog was observed in Boudh, with a total of 13 places across the state reporting foggy conditions.
According to Manorama Mohanty, Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre, no specific weather system is currently active over the state. The weather is expected to remain predominantly dry, with the influence of westerly winds beginning to take hold. However, from Tuesday onward, minor changes in the weather pattern will result in increased fog and colder temperatures.
A five-day fog alert has been issued for the state. Fog is anticipated in several districts until 8:30 AM on January 6, including Kandhamal, Koraput, Balangir, Boudh, Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Balasore, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, and Jajpur.
Additionally, a dense fog warning has been specifically issued for districts in south and central Odisha, such as Kandhamal, Boudh, Nayagarh, Ganjam, Gajapati, Khordha, and Puri. The intensifying cold wave, coupled with dense fog, is projected to persist through the coming week.
This weather phenomenon is likely to reduce visibility on roads, posing risks for commuters. Mohanty advised drivers to exercise caution while operating vehicles and urged passengers to remain vigilant during travel.
As winter tightens its grip, residents are advised to prepare for the chilly conditions and potential disruptions caused by the fog.
