Winter chill has gripped the whole state of Odisha, as minimum temperatures (night temperatures) have plummeted dramatically in the last 24 hours due to north-northwest winds. Simultaneously, shallow to dense fog developed in various sections of the state, greatly decreasing visibility.
According to the India Meteorology Department (IMD) regional center in Bhubaneswar, at least 11 locations in Odisha experienced night temperatures below 10°C, while 23 additional locations recorded night temperatures below 15°C. On Saturday night, Phulbani had the coldest temperature in the state, with a temperature of 8°C.
Other places that recorded night temperature below 10°C include Kirei (8.2°C), G. Udaygiri (8.6°C), Rourkela (8.8°C), Angul (9°C), Ranitaal (9.4°C), Daringbadi (9.4°C), Sundargarh (9.5°C), Keonjhar (9.6°C), Koraput (9.6°C), and Jharsuguda (9.8°C).
The minimum temperature in the capital city Bhubaneswar was 13.4°C, while Cuttack recorded 13.5°C.
According to the weather office, the cold wave sweeping Odisha is expected to last till December 17, with some relief following due to the influence of western storms.
In general, the weather will continue dry across the state, but some areas may get light rain beginning December 22.