Cold wave tightens grip on Odisha; Daringbadi records season’s lowest temperature at 8.5°C

Winter conditions intensified across Odisha as a severe cold wave swept through large parts of the state, causing temperatures to plummet sharply, particularly in interior and southern districts. Daringbadi in Kandhamal district recorded a minimum temperature of 8.5°C, emerging as the coldest location in Odisha so far this season.

Dense Fog, Frost Disrupts Daily Life

Severe cold conditions were also reported from Jharsuguda, Sundargarh and Angul, where residents woke up to icy winds, dense fog and frost-covered streets. In Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, temperatures dipped below 15°C, heightening discomfort among commuters and early-morning workers.

The cold wave has disrupted normal life across several districts, with many people avoiding outdoor activities during early morning and late evening hours. Dense fog in multiple regions has reduced visibility, slowing down vehicular movement and causing delays in local transportation.

For the past three days, areas under Binika and Dunguripali in Subarnapur district have been experiencing particularly severe cold, forcing residents to depend on bonfires and other improvised means to stay warm.

Residents Cope With Bonfires, Outdoor Exercise

Despite the biting chill, many locals continued with morning routines such as yoga and jogging. Village bonfires have become common across rural pockets, offering both warmth and a space for community gathering during the frigid hours.

Authorities have advised people to dress in warm layers, minimise prolonged outdoor exposure and take extra precautions to protect children, senior citizens and those with chronic illnesses.

Cold Wave Likely to Persist

With forecasts indicating that cold wave conditions may continue over the next few days, Odisha is likely to witness more chilly mornings accompanied by foggy conditions across several districts. Residents have been urged to stay alert and take necessary safety measures until temperatures stabilise.