Dense fog warnings issued for several districts until January 7

Bhubaneswar: Residents across Odisha should brace themselves for fluctuating winter conditions as the Meteorological Centre, Bhubaneswar, has issued significant weather warnings for the coming week. The latest reports indicate a mix of rising night temperatures followed by a gradual drop, alongside persistent fog alerts for various districts.

Temperature Trends and Forecast

Current observations show a distinct variance in temperatures across the state. Jharsuguda recorded the highest maximum temperature at 30.0°C, while Phulbani shivered as the coldest spot in the plains with a minimum of 7.5°C. In the hill stations, Daringbadi reported a chilling low of 7.0°C.

For the capital region, Bhubaneswar recorded a minimum temperature of 12.5°C, while Cuttack stood at 12.0°C. The forecast suggests that minimum temperatures (night temperatures) are very likely to rise by 2-3°C over the next two days. However, this relief will be short-lived, as the mercury is expected to fall gradually by 2-4°C thereafter, bringing back the chill.

Fog Warnings Issued

Visibility remains a key concern for commuters. The weather department has issued specific warnings for dense to very dense fog across isolated pockets of the state.

• Immediate Alert (Day 1): Very dense fog (visibility < 50m) has been observed in Nayagarh, Dhenkanal, and Boudh. Dense fog (visibility 50-200m) is affecting coastal and interior districts including Paradip, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Rourkela, and Koraput.
• Upcoming Days (Day 2-4): Shallow to moderate fog is expected during early morning hours in districts such as Khordha, Puri, Cuttack, Balasore, and Sambalpur. Residents in these areas are advised to drive with caution during early hours.
• Day 5 Forecast: The fog warning persists but narrows down to isolated pockets in districts like Puri, Ganjam, Gajapati, and Sundargarh.
• Day 6 & 7: No specific warnings have been issued, suggesting clearer skies towards the end of the week.

Dry Weather Prevails

Despite the fog and temperature fluctuations, dry weather has largely prevailed over the districts of Odisha. No rainfall is currently predicted, meaning the winter dryness will continue alongside the foggy mornings.

Commuters and residents, particularly in the interior and coastal belts, are advised to stay updated with daily forecasts, especially regarding visibility conditions during morning travel.