Puri shrouded in dense fog as western disturbance eases cold conditions across Odisha

The cold wave conditions in Odisha have slightly eased under the influence of a western disturbance. However, dense fog has emerged as a major challenge, affecting visibility and daily activities across several parts of the state. Early Wednesday morning, thick fog enveloped many regions, reducing visibility to just a few metres and inconveniencing commuters.

Several roads and public spaces remained obscured by the fog, making vehicular movement difficult during the early hours. Motorists were seen driving cautiously as highways and city streets virtually disappeared under the white blanket of mist.

Puri witnessed an unusual and striking sight as dense fog completely engulfed the holy town. The iconic Shree Jagannath Temple was covered in a thick layer of fog, making it nearly invisible from a distance. The intensity of the fog was such that the temple spire and the sacred Neelachakra flag atop the Badadeula could not be seen. For a while, the entire temple complex remained hidden beneath the dense fog, creating a rare visual.

According to weather experts, although minimum temperatures have risen marginally due to the western disturbance, high moisture levels and calm winds are leading to the formation of dense fog in the early morning hours. Similar weather conditions are likely to continue in some parts of the state in the coming days.

The administration has advised people to remain alert while travelling in the early mornings and to follow traffic advisories, as poor visibility could increase the risk of road accidents.