Bhubaneswar, Dec 12: Odisha experienced a sharp drop in temperatures as a cold wave continues to sweep across the state.

In Kandhamal district, the town of G Udayagiri recorded the lowest temperature at 3.1°C, marking one of the coldest nights this season. Similarly, Semiliguda in Koraput district witnessed a minimum temperature of 3.6°C, highlighting the impact of the ongoing chill in southern Odisha.

Meteorological assessments indicate that the current cold spell is likely to persist for the next two weeks. The regional centre of India Meteorological Department in Bhubaneswar has forecast that the cold wave conditions may continue across various parts of the state during this period, particularly affecting interior and hilly regions.

Other districts across Odisha also experienced sub-15°C temperatures overnight. Jharsuguda recorded a low of 7.1°C, closely followed by Rourkela at 7.2°C. Keonjhar witnessed 9.6°C, Sambalpur 10.8°C, and Hirakud 11.4°C. The state capital, Bhubaneswar, recorded a minimum of 12.6°C, while Gopalpur and Balasore registered 13.4°C and 13.5°C, respectively. Coastal towns such as Chandbali and Paradip saw temperatures of 14.4°C and 14.1°C. Puri, a popular tourist destination, recorded a slightly higher minimum of 16.4°C.

The drop in temperatures is a result of the combined effect of clear skies, calm winds, and the seasonal cold wave moving into Odisha. Residents in affected areas have been advised to take precautions, particularly the elderly and children, as the mercury continues to hover near seasonal lows.

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The cold wave serves as a reminder of the state’s diverse climatic zones, with hilly regions facing severe chill compared to coastal and plains areas. Continuous monitoring by the meteorological department will help track any further drops in temperatures in the coming weeks.