Cold wave sweeps Odisha, temperatures set to fall further after Christmas: IMD

Bhubaneswar, Dec 23: A biting cold wave has enveloped Odisha, with temperatures dropping sharply across several districts, bringing winter chills to both interior and coastal regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the cold conditions are likely to intensify from Christmas onwards as dry and cold north-westerly winds continue to flow over the state.

According to IMD observations, Koraput recorded the lowest minimum temperature at a chilling 6.3 degrees Celsius. Other cold pockets were also significantly affected, with Daringbadi registering 7°C, Nabarangpur 8°C, and Phulbani 8.5°C. Industrial and western regions witnessed a similar dip, with Jharsuguda at 9.4°C, Boudh at 9.5°C and Angul at 9.6°C. Even the state capital and nearby urban areas were not spared, as Bhubaneswar recorded 11.9°C while Cuttack saw the mercury settle at 12.4°C.

In addition to the cold wave, the IMD has issued a dense fog warning for Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, Sambalpur and Sonepur districts from December 25 to 27. Reduced visibility during early morning hours may disrupt road and rail movement.

Residents have been advised to take precautions, especially while travelling in fog-prone areas. The weather department has forecast similar cold and dry conditions over the next few days and urged people, particularly children and the elderly, to stay warm and avoid prolonged exposure to the cold.