Bhubaneswar breaks 13-year-old record as mercury drops to 9.4 deg C

Odisha continues to reel under an intense cold wave as mercury levels have dipped sharply across the state, triggering harsh winter conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that biting cold is likely to persist for the next two weeks due to the influx of dry and cold northerly winds.

The cold spell has been accompanied by chilly winds and dense fog in several areas, adding to public discomfort. At present, minimum temperatures of 10 degrees Celsius or below have been recorded in 24 towns across the state.

For the first time this season, the minimum temperature in Odisha has dropped close to 2 degrees Celsius. On Friday, G Udayagiri in Kandhamal district recorded the state's lowest minimum temperature at 2.5 degrees Celsius. Semiliguda followed closely at 3.2 degrees, while Phulbani recorded 5 degrees Celsius. Rourkela and Jharsuguda registered minimum temperatures of 5.4°C and 5.8°C, respectively.

The capital city, Bhubaneswar, also shivered as the minimum temperature dipped to 9.4 degrees Celsius, marking the coldest night in 13 years. The last time the city experienced a similar chill was in 2012, when the minimum temperature had fallen to 9.3 degrees Celsius.

Also Read: Odisha to remain in grip of cold wave for two more weeks

Meteorological officials have advised people to take precautions, particularly during early morning and night hours, as the cold wave conditions are expected to continue in the coming days.