IMD Issues Yellow Warning for Cold Wave in Parts of Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued a yellow warning for cold wave conditions in parts of Odisha, urging people to remain alert as temperatures continue to drop across the state.

According to the Midday Weather Bulletin released by the Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, cold wave conditions are very likely to prevail in isolated pockets of Jharsuguda, Angul and Boudh districts till the morning of January 13. The warning has been extended, with similar conditions expected to continue in these districts till January 14.

From January 14 to January 15, the cold wave is likely to affect a broader region, including Sundargarh, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Khordha, Angul, Dhenkanal, Kendrapada and Boudh districts.

The bulletin reported a marked fall in minimum temperatures by around 5°C at one or two places, while a decrease of 2–4°C was recorded at several other locations. Night temperatures have dipped significantly below normal, particularly in North Interior Odisha. Many areas of North Coastal and South Odisha are also experiencing below-normal minimum temperatures. Rourkela recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 6.7°C, indicating the intensity of the cold spell over the plains.

Despite the sharp fall in temperatures, dry weather is expected to prevail across the state over the next few days, as no significant synoptic system is influencing the region. Moderate fog was reported at one or two places in Kalahandi district, while morning fog or mist is likely in Bhubaneswar and nearby areas, followed by a mainly clear sky later in the day. The state capital is expected to record daytime temperatures around 28°C and nighttime temperatures near 12°C.

The IMD noted that there is likely to be no major change in minimum temperatures over the next four to five days, indicating that cold conditions may persist. Farmers have been advised to remain cautious, as the cold wave could adversely affect crops in the warned districts.

No weather warnings have been issued for fishermen along the Odisha coast for the next five days. The IMD has urged the public to keep track of official forecasts and advisories as the cold wave continues to grip the state.