Baripada: A sharp fall in temperatures has intensified the cold wave across Mayurbhanj district, with Similipal recording a minimum of 2°C in the past 24 hours. The biting cold has begun to affect wildlife in the Similipal Tiger Reserve, while human activity in urban areas, particularly Baripada, has started slowing down before dusk.
The steady flow of cold northerly winds has made daytime conditions increasingly chilly across the district. Residents in all 26 blocks have turned to heavy winter clothing as minimum temperatures hover around 13°C in most areas. However, Similipal remained the coldest, with the Upper Barhakamuda range in the North Division recording 2°C at 6am Saturday.
Other temperature readings within the reserve included 4°C in Chahala, 7°C in Barehipani, 6°C in Gudugudia, 12°C in Ramtirtha, and 13°C in Kiajhari and Satkosia.
The falling temperatures have also reduced visibility in the early morning and late night due to dense fog, causing disruptions in vehicle movement. Daily life has been affected across the district, with elderly people, children, domestic animals and wildlife experiencing considerable distress.
PNN
