Bhubaneswar: A severe cold wave continues to tighten its grip across Odisha, with minimum temperatures plunging below 10 degrees Celsius in several districts, disrupting normal life. In view of the persistent chill, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow warning for multiple parts of the state, cautioning that cold wave conditions are likely to continue over the next few days.
According to weather data recorded on Friday, G. Udayagiri in Kandhamal district emerged as the coldest location in Odisha, registering a minimum temperature of 3.1 degrees Celsius. Other interior pockets also witnessed sharp drops in mercury, with Semiliguda recording 3.6 degrees Celsius, followed by Phulbani at 5.5 degrees.
Hill stations and western regions experienced similar biting cold. Daringbadi, popularly known as the ‘Kashmir of Odisha’, recorded a low of 6.5 degrees Celsius, while Chiplima registered 6.6 degrees. Industrial town Jharsuguda saw temperatures fall to 7.1 degrees, and Bhawanipatna in Kalahandi district recorded 7.5 degrees Celsius.
Yellow Warning for Multiple Districts
In response to the prevailing weather conditions, the IMD has issued a yellow warning for parts of Angul, Jharsuguda, and Kalahandi districts, where cold wave conditions are expected to persist. Meteorological officials said the ongoing cold spell is being driven by dry north-westerly winds and is likely to continue across Odisha for the next six to seven days.
The Regional Meteorological Centre has forecast that while daytime temperatures may hover around 29 degrees Celsius, night temperatures are expected to remain low, averaging close to 12 degrees Celsius, especially in interior and high-altitude regions.
Cold Conditions Affect Daily Life
The sharp fall in temperatures has begun to affect daily routines across the state. Early mornings and evenings have seen reduced outdoor activity, particularly in rural and hilly areas. Residents are taking precautionary measures, including wearing warm clothing, limiting exposure to cold winds, and maintaining physical activity to stay healthy.
Weather officials have advised people, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory ailments, to remain cautious as the cold wave persists.
