Bhubaneswar: Cloud Cover Brings Relief as Cold Wave Eases Across Odisha

Odisha witnessed relief from the recent spell of extreme cold as temperatures across most parts of the State rose above normal due to increased cloud cover, officials said on Saturday.

According to weather expert Umashankar Dash, night temperatures in several regions are currently hovering 5 to 7 degrees Celsius above normal. The rise in cloudiness has contributed to warmer nights, indicating an end to the intense cold conditions that prevailed over the past few days.

Temperature readings recorded at 5.30 am showed Jharsuguda at 11.6°C, which is 5.4°C above normal, while Bhubaneswar and Baleswar reported 17°C, exceeding normal levels by 6.8°C and 5.4°C respectively. Kendujhar recorded a minimum temperature of 15°C, around 6°C above normal.

Satellite imagery revealed cloudy skies over northern coastal Odisha, interior districts and southern parts of the State. However, some areas of Sundargarh, Bargarh and Sambalpur remained largely cloud-free.

The State had been experiencing severe cold conditions over the last few days, with minimum temperatures in several places dropping below 5°C. Certain regions had even recorded 0°C, while parts of the Similipal area witnessed sub-zero temperatures, touching minus 1°C.

Weather officials said the prevailing cloud cover is likely to prevent further sharp drops in temperature in the immediate future, offering temporary respite from the biting cold.