The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather forecast for Odisha, predicting a gradual but sharp decline in night temperatures across the state. Residents should prepare for colder nights as the mercury is expected to slide by two to four degrees Celsius over the coming three to four days.
Fog Disruption and Visibility Woes Continue
Alongside the dipping temperatures, the IMD has extended its dense fog warning for several districts until January 7. This persistent fog has already been causing partial disruptions to road and rail communications in various pockets of the state during the morning hours.
An IMD bulletin highlighted that on Sunday, Jajpur town experienced dense fog, while six other towns, including the capital Bhubaneswar, were shrouded in moderate fog. This weather phenomenon severely reduced visibility, at times to a maximum of just 200 metres, creating hazardous conditions for commuters.
Current Temperatures and Official Warnings
The hill station of G Udayagiri was recorded as the coldest place in Odisha at a chilly 6.4°C, followed by Phulbani at 8.5°C. In contrast, Bhubaneswar saw a daytime temperature of 17.6°C, which was actually 2.6 degrees above the normal range for this time of year.
IMD scientist Sanjeev Dwivedi, based in the capital, explained the forecast. He stated that the current wind pattern is conducive to the drop in night temperature over the next few days. However, he indicated that this cold spell may be interrupted later by western disturbances, which could push temperatures up again. He also noted that cloudy conditions from these disturbances might reduce the likelihood of fog formation in some areas.
The IMD has issued specific color-coded warnings for the fog:
- Orange Warning (Very Dense Fog): For Jajpur and Nayagarh districts on Monday and Tuesday.
- Yellow Warning (Dense Fog): In effect until January 7 for a wider range of districts including Puri, Khurda, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Dhenkanal, Ganjam, Kandhamal, Sundargarh, and Gajapati.
Looking Ahead: A Fluctuating Weather Pattern
Interestingly, Sunday itself saw a slight rise in night temperature by two to three degrees, a brief respite before the predicted fall. The IMD's forecast suggests a period of climatic fluctuation. Citizens, especially travelers, are advised to exercise caution due to reduced visibility from fog and to prepare for the significant drop in nighttime cold. The situation underscores the variable winter weather patterns affecting the region.
