Bhubaneswar: Night temperatures dropped below 20 degrees Celsius across most parts of Odisha, including the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Kataka, signalling the onset of winter in the state, the IMD said Monday.
According to an IMD chart, Bhubaneswar recorded a minimum temperature of 18.9 degrees Celsius, which was 1.7 degrees below normal, while Kataka registered 17.6 degrees Celsius.
Similiguda in Koraput district was the coldest among the state’s hill stations, recording a minimum temperature of 12.2 degrees Celsius.
Phulbani in Kandhamala district was the coldest place in the plains at 14 degrees Celsius, followed by Bhabanipatana and Daringbadi at 15 degrees each.
Jharsuguda and Nabarangpur recorded minimum temperatures of 16 degrees Celsius each, followed by Kendujhar at 16.6 degrees, Rayagada at 17 degrees, Balangir at 17.2 degrees, Debagada at 17.4 degrees, Paralakhemundi at 17.5 degrees and Hirakud at 17.8 degrees.
In its forecast, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said, “Fall in minimum temperature (night temperature) by 2-3 Degree Celsius during the next 24 hours and no large change thereafter over the districts of Odisha.”
The weather agency has forecast dry weather across the state.
Meanwhile, a thick blanket of smoke enveloped Bhubaneswar following post-Diwali celebrations on Sunday night, reducing visibility amid moderate fog.
In its midday bulletin, the IMD said dense fog occurred at one or two places in Sundaragada district of north interior Odisha, while moderate fog was reported at one or two places in Khordha district of the state’s south coastal region.
PTI