Bhubaneswar, Jan 6: Odisha is reeling under severe cold conditions as night temperatures continue to fall across the state. For the first time this season, Cuttack recorded a minimum of 10°C, while Bhubaneswar registered 12.9°C.

The sharp drop is attributed to cold winds flowing from the north and northeast. The Regional Meteorological Centre has predicted that temperatures may dip further by 2-4°C over the next week, intensifying the cold wave.

As many as 15 cities reported minimum temperatures of 10°C or below, with Jharsuguda recording the lowest at 5.1°C. Dense fog has also gripped several regions, reducing visibility and adding to the discomfort. Weather officials have confirmed that no major atmospheric system is currently active, and dry conditions are expected to prevail for the next seven days.

Also read: Yuzvendra Chahal, Dhanashree Verma to Reunite!

Meanwhile, a low-pressure area has formed over the Bay of Bengal, which became evident around 5:30 PM Monday. The system is likely to become more defined within 24 hours. While the Meteorological Department has indicated that Odisha may not face a direct impact, coastal and northern districts could experience its influence.

Farmers, however, are worried. With the harvest season underway, any untimely rainfall triggered by the low-pressure system could damage crops. The combination of biting cold and potential showers has raised concerns among the farming community, who fear losses if weather conditions worsen.

The state is thus bracing for a dual challenge — intensifying winter and the looming threat of rain. Authorities have urged citizens to take precautions against the cold wave, while farmers remain anxious about the possible impact on agriculture.