TV
Odisha is experiencing a severe cold wave condition with mercury dropping sharply across the state. Despite the late onset of winter, temperatures have declined steadily, intensifying the cold conditions significantly in a short span of time.
According to the Meteorological Department, the cold conditions are expected to persist throughout the coming week, with no major changes in weather patterns. While skies are likely to remain clear, the chill is expected to deepen further.
Temperatures in the interior districts of the state are expected to drop to around 9°C, while in most urban areas, the mercury is likely to fall below 15°C. Light to moderate fog is expected in some areas of districts such as Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Ganjam, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Koraput over the next two days.
Meanwhile, the bone-chilling cold has disrupted normal life across the state.
“The temperature here has dropped considerably in the past two or three days. Earlier, I used to go on morning walks with my acquaintances, but now I am the only one who steps out. The intense cold weather is affecting our daily lives. During the early hours of the day, people can be seen huddled around campfires or gathering at tea stalls to combat the chill,” a resident of Bonai said,
Adding to the discomfort is the dense fog causing a reduction in visibility, and posing risks for residents. Recounting a harrowing experience, another local shared, “The dense fog caused by the sudden temperature drop has significantly reduced visibility. Once, while walking in this weather, I encountered an elephant. The fog was so thick that I only saw the pachyderm when I was close to it. Thankfully, the elephant did not notice me and passed by.”
As the cold intensifies, Odisha braces for harsher conditions in the days ahead.
