Odisha is once again grappling with a fresh spell of cold weather, as temperatures have plunged sharply across multiple districts, creating bone-chilling conditions. Jharsuguda recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 6 °C, with the town’s mercury standing at 6.8 °C by 5:30 am, signaling an intense cold wave. Other districts also reported significant drops in temperature, with Keonjhar registering a minimum of 9.4 °C, Chandbali at 12.2 °C, and both Bhubaneswar and Paradip recording 12.4 °C. The Odisha Meteorological Department attributed the sudden drop in temperature to a strong flow of cold and dry air moving in from the north-western and northern regions.

In addition to the severe cold, dense fog has been affecting life in several districts, particularly in southern Odisha. Kandhamal district, along with other hilly regions, has experienced heavy fog that drastically reduces visibility, making road travel extremely difficult and posing challenges for commuters. In many areas, roads are barely visible even from a short distance, adding to the hazards caused by the winter weather.

The combined impact of cold waves and dense fog has disrupted daily life across the state. While some people continue to carry out their work despite the harsh weather, others are seen taking measures to stay warm, often starting their mornings with hot beverages to cope with the plunging temperatures. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as winter conditions intensify, and residents are being advised to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the severe cold and reduced visibility caused by the fog.