Cold wave returns to Odisha, mercury plummets across districts

Cold wave conditions returned to Odisha, with a sharp drop in night temperature affecting several parts of the state. According to recorded data till 5:30 am on Tuesday, Jharsuguda registered a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius, making it one of the coldest places in the state. Keonjhar recorded 11 degrees Celsius, while Chandbali registered 13.8 degrees Celsius.

The chill was also felt in coastal districts. The temperature in Bhubaneswar once again fell below the 15-degree mark, with the state capital recording 14 degrees Celsius. Balasore recorded a minimum temperature of 14.2 degrees Celsius.

Weather Pattern Behind The Temperature Drop

According to the Meteorological Department, night temperature is likely to fall further over the next few days. Cold and dry winds are currently blowing from the north and north-west due to the activation of a pressure belt over the central part of the country. As the intensity of these winds increases, the moisture content in the air is expected to reduce further.

The ongoing influence of western disturbances is also contributing to the prevailing cold conditions. Meteorological officials assessed that there is unlikely to be any immediate relief from the biting cold, with similar conditions expected to persist for the next four to five days.

Cold And Fog Disrupt Normal Life

As per reports, severe cold and fog gripped Odisha immediately after the New Year. Although temperature rose slightly over the past two days,  dropped again on Tuesday. Both northern and southern parts of the state are currently experiencing intense cold and fog, which is affecting daily life in several areas.

Also Read: Cold wave returns to Odisha as temperatures like to fall sharply in next 2 to 3 days

While Cuttack and Bhubaneswar are not witnessing foggy conditions at present, temperature in both cities is expected to decline further during the night. The nighttime temperature in these cities is likely to dip by another 2 to 3 degrees Celsius and remain low for the next four days, the forecast indicated.