Odisha is reeling under a severe cold wave, with temperatures plunging to unprecedented lows across the state.
The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj recorded extreme chill, as Upper Barahakamuda dipped to minus 1°C, marking one of the coldest nights in recent memory.
Other parts of Similipal also witnessed biting cold: Chahala and Gudugudia registered 2°C, Barehipani 5°C, while Ramatirtha and Satkosia reported 9°C. Frost spread a white sheet across Similipal, creating a breathtaking winter landscape.
Across Odisha, 25 cities recorded temperatures below 10°C, highlighting the widespread impact of the cold wave. In Kandhamal district, G. Udaygiri emerged as the coldest spot at 2.6°C.
City-wise Minimum Temperatures
- Rourkela: 3.6°C
- Semiliguda: 4.1°C
- Jharsuguda: 4.6°C (7.2°C below normal, continuously breaking records)
- Phulbani: 5°C
- Bhubaneswar: 9.4°C (lowest January temperature in 13 years)
Dense fog was reported in Bhawanipatna, reducing visibility and disrupting traffic. Isolated cold wave conditions were also observed in Angul and Jharsuguda.
IMD Forecast
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), cold wave conditions will prevail in Odisha for the next two weeks. The chill is attributed to cold winds blowing in from the north-west. The regional weather centre has warned that the situation will continue for at least two more days, with fog likely in several areas.
Public Impact
The biting cold has forced residents indoors, with fewer people seen on roads. Locals lit fires to keep warm, while markets witnessed brisk sales of woollens and hot food. Senior citizens, children, and patients have been advised to take extra precautions. Authorities urged people to wear warm clothing, consume hot food, and avoid unnecessary travel.
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