Kandhamal, Nov 27:  Kandhamal is currently experiencing severe cold, coupled with dense fog, leading to significant disruptions in daily life. The situation has worsened, especially in areas like G.Udaygiri, where the cold wave has caused considerable distress among the local population.

According to the Odisha State Meteorological Department, the temperature in the region dropped to 8.6°C yesterday, signaling the onset of a severe winter. The dense fog has rendered visibility poor, affecting road conditions and making it nearly impossible to see the landscape clearly, including the surrounding hills and trees. The fog is so thick that even the rustling of leaves in the trees can be heard from a distance as the fog traps the sounds, adding to the eerie atmosphere.

People are facing difficulties due to the cold, with many having to contend with disruptions in their daily routines. However, despite the adverse weather, local tea shops have become places of respite, with hot tea attracting customers even in the early hours of the morning. Many tea shops are open by 4 am to cater to the demand for warmth.

The fog has caused a drastic reduction in road traffic, particularly on the National Highway, with fewer vehicles seen on the roads during the morning hours. This is primarily due to concerns over safety in such dense fog, with drivers avoiding long-distance travel. As a result, several vehicles are seen stationed at Kalinga Ghat, taking shelter until the fog clears.