Odisha continued to reel under a severe cold wave on Thursday as temperatures dipped sharply across northern, western, and central parts of the state. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Jharsuguda recorded a frigid 8.6°C at 5:30 am, while several pockets of Kandhamal and Koraput hovered close to 5°C, marking one of the coldest stretches of this winter season.
Bhubaneswar Sees Steep Temperature Drop
The cold conditions intensified further in the state capital, where Bhubaneswar measured 13°C early this morning, reflecting a steep drop of 9.6°C within the last ten days. Preliminary station readings show that at least ten cities and towns across Odisha recorded minimum temperatures of 10°C or lower, indicating the widespread reach of the cold wave.
IMD Predicts Two More Days of Harsh Winter
The IMD forecast suggests that the severe cold conditions will persist for a minimum of 48 more hours, with dense fog and cold northwesterly winds likely to dominate during early mornings and late evenings. Meteorologists noted that the broader cooling pattern aligns with ongoing synoptic weather conditions influencing eastern India.
The weather agency’s extended outlook also indicates that winter intensity will remain strong until December 12, with a further dip expected in several interior districts.
Western Disturbance to Influence Temperature Shift
A fresh Western Disturbance is expected to impact the western Himalayan region starting December 13, the IMD said. Once this system interacts with the plains, Odisha may experience a shift in minimum temperatures.
Early assessments suggest that the current cold wave could ease slightly after two days as cloud formation and changes in wind flow associated with the disturbance reduce night-time radiative cooling. However, meteorologists cautioned that the winter phase is far from over, and additional cold spells are likely later in December.
Cold Wave Impacts Daily Life Across Districts
The deepening cold has disrupted routine activities in several parts of the state. Field reports from Phulbani, Bonai, Koida, and other hilly regions highlight sparse early-morning movement, reduced vehicular traffic, and curtailed business operations as residents avoided staying outdoors for long durations in the bone-chilling wind.
Marketplaces, public transport hubs, and outdoor work areas witnessed visibly low footfall on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, with many localities turning unusually quiet shortly after sunset.
