Bhubaneswar, Dec 29: Odisha is experiencing a sharp drop in temperatures, with many regions recording near-freezing conditions. In Udayagiri, the night temperature fell to 4°C, while in 13 cities, mercury remained below 10°C. The Water Resources Department has forecasted a slight rise of 2–3°C in night temperatures after the New Year.

Night temperatures were recorded at 3.5°C in Udayagiri, 6°C in Phulbani and Daringbadi, 7°C in Jharsuguda, Rourkela, and Koraput, 7.5°C in Semiliguda, 8.3°C in Kirei, 8.5°C in Nabarangpur, and 9°C in Anugul.

On Monday, minimum temperatures are expected to be 7°C in Phulbani, 8°C in Koraput, Jharsuguda, and Rourkela, and 9°C in Nabarangpur.

The Water Resources Department has also predicted dense fog on Tuesday in Bhadrak, Baleshwar, Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Anugul, Dhenkanal, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Nayagarh. Moderate fog may also be seen across northern and interior Odisha. Dense fog is expected to persist in these areas on Wednesday and Thursday.

Residents are advised to take necessary precautions against the cold and reduced visibility due to fog.