Odisha Shivers as Mercury Dips, IMD Predicts Colder Days Ahead

By author getodisha Dec 13, 20240

Odisha is currently gripped by an icy chill as winter sets in with full force. The mercury has dropped sharply across the state, particularly in interior and hilly regions, with night temperatures dipping below seasonal averages.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that the cold wave is here to stay for at least another week, bringing dry weather and increased fog. Interior districts, such as Kandhamal and Koraput, are bracing for lows of 9°C, while urban centers like Bhubaneswar and Cuttack might experience temperatures sliding below 15°C.

Plummeting Mercury and Predictions

This year’s winter appears to have arrived slightly later than usual but is intensifying steadily. According to IMD experts, minimum night temperatures in interior districts like Phulbani and Daringbadi—dubbed the “Kashmir of Odisha”—are expected to continue dipping significantly, cementing their reputation as the state’s coldest towns.

For today, IMD predicts mild to moderate fog in districts including Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Ganjam, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Koraput. Morning walkers in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack also faced bone-chilling temperatures early Friday, with clear skies adding to the nip.

What Residents Are Experiencing

After a warmer-than-usual start to December, residents are now unpacking winter woollens as they brace for the peak chill. Farmers, in particular, have welcomed the weather shift, with colder conditions helping late-sown winter crops like wheat and mustard. However, the drop in temperature has also led to concerns about health issues, particularly for the elderly and children.

“Even urban pockets feel colder than ever this week,” said Pradeep Sahoo, a Bhubaneswar-based resident. “It’s a late start to winter, but nature is now making up for lost time.”

IMD’s Advisory for Odisha’s Residents

IMD has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to exercise caution during the early morning and late evening due to increased fog levels, which may impact visibility on roads. They also suggest layering up to stay protected from the cold wave’s impact.

Here’s what to expect next:

Intensified cold over the state, with regions in western and southern Odisha particularly affected.
Dry weather patterns prevailing, aiding clearer skies but amplifying nighttime cooling.
Widespread fog across low-lying areas in the coming days, especially in Kandhamal and Jharsuguda districts.

Phulbani and Daringbadi: The Winter Gems of Odisha

Phulbani and Daringbadi are already witnessing their signature freezing temperatures. Often drawing comparisons with the hill stations of North India, these places become hubs for winter tourism, offering a serene escape amid the frost-laden landscapes.