Odisha Shivers: Similipal Touches Freezing Point as Cold Wave Intensifies

BHUBANESWAR – A severe cold wave has tightened its grip across Odisha, with temperatures plummeting to freezing levels in the state's northern and hilly terrains. According to the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (RCCF), Upper Barakamuda in the Similipal Tiger Reserve recorded a bone-chilling 0°C, marking one of the lowest temperatures of the season.
The intense chill was mirrored in nearby high-altitude zones: Chahala recorded 2°C, while both Bareipani and Gudugudia saw the mercury dip to 5°C. The region is currently battling a combination of icy winds and dense fog, which has significantly disrupted normal life and local transport.
Record Lows Across the State
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that the cold wave is likely to persist in isolated pockets. Over the last 24 hours, 23 cities across Odisha recorded temperatures below 10°C.
In the twin cities, the chill was equally palpable. Cuttack recorded a minimum of 9.6°C, slightly lower than Bhubaneswar, which stood at 10.2°C.
Fog Warning and IMD Forecast
Regional IMD Director Manorama Mohanty noted that the state is not only dealing with the cold but also "very dense fog" in districts like Boudh and Nayagarh. Visibility has also been severely hampered in Bhawanipatna, Paralakhemundi, and Rayagada.
"We expect night temperatures to dip by another 1–1.5°C over the next three to four days. Dense fog conditions are likely to prevail across various districts for at least the next five days," stated Mohanty.
Safety Advisories Issued
In response to the deteriorating weather conditions, authorities have issued high-priority advisories for residents in Boudh, Nayagarh, and Koraput. Citizens are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during late-night and early-morning hours due to poor visibility and to take adequate precautions against the biting cold.