Kandhamal district in Odisha has been experiencing severe cold conditions for nearly one and a half months, with temperatures consistently remaining below 10 degrees Celsius since November 10. The prolonged cold wave has caused widespread discomfort among residents, especially in interior and hilly regions where the impact has been more intense.
On Wednesday, the mercury dropped below 5 degrees Celsius in parts of the district. G. Udayagiri recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 4.3 degrees Celsius, followed by Phulbani at 6 degrees Celsius and Daringbadi at 7 degrees Celsius. Compared to urban areas, temperatures in rural and hilly pockets were recorded 2 to 3 degrees lower, further intensifying the cold wave.
Residents reported numbness in their hands and feet due to the biting cold, with daily routines severely disrupted. Normal life has been affected as people struggle to cope with the harsh weather, particularly during night hours when the chill sets in soon after sunset and peaks around midnight, sources said.
Adding to the hardship, dense fog engulfed Kandhamal on Wednesday, significantly reducing visibility. Reports indicate that the fog began around midnight and continued till the time of reporting, with visibility dropping to less than 10 metres in several areas. The district appeared covered under a white blanket, further hampering movement.
On Tuesday, the minimum temperature in Kandhamal was recorded at 5 degrees Celsius, while on Wednesday it reportedly dropped further to around 3 degrees Celsius in interior areas.
The combination of dense fog and severe cold made commuting difficult, particularly along ghat roads, where driving became hazardous. A few accidents were reportedly recorded in recent days, prompting authorities to advise motorists to exercise caution.
Locals complained that warm clothing and blankets were insufficient to combat the cold, with many stating that they continued to feel chilled even after using multiple layers.
Despite the harsh conditions, Kandhamal has witnessed a steady influx of tourists eager to experience the winter chill, with popular destinations such as Daringbadi and Udayagiri attracting visitors.
