Geographical location
The state of Odisha has a long coastline because of which there is a huge difference between the weather conditions of coastal areas and inland stations. It experiences winter for a limited period, late to set in and early to leave. The weather starts heating up from the second half of February and the state’s proximity to Tropic of Cancer makes it susceptible to high temperatures.
It is one of those states wherein temperatures soar to next levels from the second half of February. Going by the records, the capital city of Bhubaneswar recorded a high maximum of 39.4 degrees Celsius on February 23, 2019. While mercury crossed a whopping 40 degrees Celsius in 2012 and 2016.
Winter in Odisha
The state observes mild winters and minimums settle mostly in double digits only in the month of February (barring a few areas in interior Odisha where mercury slips to single digits). From the second half of the month, the temperatures start showing the increasing trend and rise up to uncomfortable levels. The temperature pattern of the state is linked to the weather activities occurring in North India and adjoining Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Why is it still cold here?
Although the weather has started warming up in North India, Odisha is experiencing below normal temperatures. The interior regions of the state are observing below normal minimums by 5-7 degrees Celsius.
For instance, Titilagarh has recorded the morning temperature of 9.6℃ which is below normal by 7 degrees. Mercury in Angul settled at 9.6℃, below normal by 6 degrees. Jharsuguda recorded 5 degrees below the normal minimum at 11.4℃today. The average temperature in February at this time should be 18 degrees.
According to Skymet’s meteorologists, the reason for below normal temperatures can be attributed to the cold north-westerlies which have been blowing over the state in the absence of any weather system.
Forecast
A Western Disturbance is soon going to approach the Western Himalayas. Under the influence of this system, the temperature pattern would change and cold north-westerlies would get replaced by comparatively warmer winds. These winds after sweeping the northern plains are expected to reach Odisha leading to a rise in the temperatures. Minimums may settle near normal, with a variation of just one or two degrees. The day temperature may also rise and come in the rage of 33℃ to 35℃.
The weather models are also indicating chances of rain from February 22 to 25 in parts of the state. Commencing with light intensity, rains will increase on February 24. There are chances of moderate rain with a few heavy spells on February 25.