Last updated: January 18, 2025
Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by Köppen-Geiger classifications of Aw (tropical savanna) and Cwa (humid subtropical). The region experiences seasonal temperature variations, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) recorded in December and an average annual temperature of 27°C (80°F). Peaks in heat are observed in May, where maximum temperatures can reach a scorching 46°C (114°F), highlighting the intensity of summer in this vibrant state. The interplay of its climate shapes not only the local environment but also the cultural practices and agricultural activities of its inhabitants.
Odisha experiences distinctive seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year, characterized by a gradual warming as it transitions from winter to summer. January and February are mild, with minimum temperatures hovering around 8°C to 9°C and average highs reaching 34°C by February. As spring progresses into March and April, temperatures surge significantly, with maximums hitting 43°C in March and peaking at 44°C in April, indicating the onset of the summer heat. May marks the pinnacle of warmth, where averages rise to 31°C and maximums soar to a scorching 46°C. The arrival of the monsoon in June brings a slight reprieve, with temperatures remaining high but cooling slightly to an average of 30°C. This trend continues throughout July and August, where average temperatures stabilize around 28°C, accompanied by increased humidity. As the year draws to a close, October and November present a gradual decrease in temperatures, transitioning back to cooler conditions with December seeing lows drop to 7°C, exemplifying the dramatic seasonal shifts that define Odisha's climate.
Bhubaneshwar experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) in December to a maximum of 40°C (105°F) in April. In contrast, Puri has its lowest temperature at 15°C (59°F) in January and peaks at 36°C (97°F) in June. Raurkela shows a broader temperature variation, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) in December and an extreme maximum of 44°C (111°F) in June. For more details on monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Bhubaneshwar, monthly temperatures in Puri, and monthly temperatures in Raurkela.
Odisha's precipitation patterns reveal a distinct shift from the dry winter months to a pronounced monsoonal phase in the summer. January and February see minimal rainfall, with only 9 mm and 18 mm, respectively, while March marks a gradual increase to 23 mm. The trend continues into April, where precipitation rises to 35 mm, culminating in May with a significant leap to 76 mm as the region prepares for the impending monsoon. As the rainy season sets in, June becomes a turning point with 232 mm of rain over an average of 20 days, laying the foundation for a wet summer.
The peak of the monsoon occurs in July and August, during which Odisha is drenched with 368 mm and 360 mm of rainfall, respectively, often concentrated over 27 rainy days in each month. As the monsoon begins to retreat, September still offers substantial rainfall at 279 mm, before tapering off in October with 172 mm. The post-monsoon months of November and December see a notable decline in precipitation, with 46 mm and 37 mm recorded respectively, highlighting the seasonal transitions and their impact on the state's agricultural cycles and water resources.
In Odisha, the duration of sunshine exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with a noticeable increase from winter to summer months. January starts the year with a substantial 251 hours of sunlight, and this figure gradually climbs through February to 290 hours. The arrival of spring sees even more sunshine, particularly in March and April, where the hours peak at 335 and 339, respectively. May continues this upward trend, reaching an impressive 354 hours, as the state gears up for the scorching summer. This period of abundant sunlight is essential for agricultural activities, which thrive in the warm, sunny conditions.
However, as the monsoon season approaches in June, the sunshine hours begin to decline, with only 288 hours recorded. This decline continues through July and August, where the cloud cover and rainfall limit sunlight absorption to just 264 and 265 hours, respectively. By September, the sun starts to shine a bit more with 269 hours, and October brings a recovery with 297 hours of sunshine. The year ends on a relatively consistent note, with November and December recording 290 and 291 hours. This seasonal ebb and flow of sunshine in Odisha underscores the influence of climatic shifts, significantly impacting both the environment and the livelihoods of the local population.
Odisha's UV Index reveals substantial variation throughout the year, indicating a heightened risk of skin damage from the sun, especially during the peak summer months. Starting in January with a UV Index of 9 classified as "very high," residents are already at risk, with a quick burn time of just 15 minutes. As the year progresses into February, the index rises to a striking 11, and further climbs to an extreme rating of 12 in both March and April. The transition into May heralds even more intense sun exposure, reaching a UV Index of 13, where the danger escalates significantly, with only 10 minutes before skin can begin to burn.
The intensity peaks in June, July, August, and September, where a UV Index of 14 remains consistent across these months, all categorized as "extreme" with similarly brief 10-minute burn times. This period necessitates particularly vigilant sun safety measures, as overexposure can lead to serious health risks. By October, the index decreases slightly to 12, maintaining an extreme classification before tapering off to 9 in November and 8 in December, transitioning back to very high exposure levels. Understanding these UV Index trends is crucial for residents and visitors alike to protect themselves from harmful effects while enjoying the abundant sunshine in Odisha.
UV Risk Categories
In Odisha, the duration of daylight reveals a consistent seasonal rhythm, beginning with approximately 11 hours each in January and February. As spring approaches, daylight extends, reaching 12 hours in both March and April, which encourages a more active lifestyle and beneficial conditions for agriculture. The longest days arrive in May and persist into June, with each month enjoying 13 hours of daylight, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and maximizing sunlight for crops during the pre-monsoon period.
As the monsoon season takes hold in July and August, the daylight remains stable at 13 hours, despite the increased cloud cover and rainfall. In the following months, September and October see a return to 12 and 11 hours of daylight, respectively, gradually tapering off as winter approaches. By November, daylight duration settles back to 11 hours, and December experiences the shortest daylight of the year with just 10 hours. This natural variation in daylight duration plays a key role in the environmental and cultural patterns observed throughout Odisha, influencing everything from agriculture to daily activities.
Balasore, India, experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. Temperatures range from a mild 14°C (57°F) in January to highs of 37°C (98°F) in April and June. The city receives significant rainfall, particularly during the monsoon months from June to September, with July seeing the highest precipitation at 276 mm (10.9 in). Despite high humidity, Balasore enjoys a good amount of sunshine, especially in the summer months, peaking at 350 hours in May. For more detailed climate information, visit Balasore climate.
Bargarh, India experiences a predominantly hot climate with temperatures peaking in the summer months, reaching up to 45°C (114°F) in May. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings substantial rainfall, particularly in July and August, when precipitation exceeds 400 mm (16.0 in). The warmest months see ample sunshine, with May enjoying the highest at 361 hours. Meanwhile, the cooler months of January and December see temperatures drop to a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and around 253 sunshine hours. For more details, visit Bargarh climate.
Bhubaneshwar, India experiences a tropical climate with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. From January to March, temperatures rise from a comfortable average of 21°C (70°F) to a peak in April at around 30°C (86°F). The monsoon season, spanning from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, peaking in July with 389 mm (15.3 in) of precipitation. Despite the rain, sunshine remains abundant, with May enjoying the most sun hours at 350. For more detailed information, visit Bhubaneshwar climate.
Brahmapur, India, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot summers and a significant monsoon season. Temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in January to a maximum of 38°C (100°F) in May, with average monthly temperatures around 21°C (71°F) to 30°C (87°F). Precipitation peaks during the monsoon months of July and August, with July recording up to 326 mm (12.8 in), while the dry season sees considerably less rain. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in May with 353 hours, but experiences a slight decrease during the rainy months. For more details, visit the Brahmapur climate.
Cuttack, India, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January and December see cooler temperatures, with averages around 21°C (70°F), while April and May peak at about 30-31°C (86-87°F). The city faces significant monsoon rainfall from June to September, with July receiving the highest at 404 mm (15.9 in). Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant, with the sunniest month being May, offering 351 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Cuttack climate.
Deogarh, India experiences a tropical climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January starts off mild with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 31°C, while the summer months of March to June see highs reaching up to 42°C. The monsoon season, from June to August, brings heavy rainfall, with July peaking at 411 mm. Sunshine is abundant in the months leading to the monsoon, peaking in May with 356 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Deogarh climate.
Dhenkanal, India experiences a tropical climate with distinct warm seasons and significant rainfall from June to September. Temperatures range from a mild 10°C (50°F) in January to a high of 41°C (106°F) in March and April. The monsoon season brings heavy precipitation, particularly in July and August, with over 360 mm (14.2 in) of rainfall recorded in August alone. Sunshine is abundant, peaking at 349 hours in May, while the cooler months of December and January still offer a decent amount of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Dhenkanal climate.
The climate in Ganjam, India, is characterized by warm temperatures and significant seasonal rainfall. January to March sees mild temperatures ranging from 14°C to 35°C (58°F to 95°F) and minimal rainfall, while the monsoon months from June to September experience heavy precipitation, peaking in July with 368 mm (14.5 in) of rain. The region enjoys ample sunshine, especially in April and May, with an average of up to 352 hours per month. Overall, Ganjam presents a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry periods, making it essential to plan accordingly. For more detailed information, visit Ganjam climate.
Gopalpur, India, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the monsoon months. January begins with mild temperatures, ranging from 19°C to 26°C, while May marks the start of hotter conditions with highs reaching 33°C. The rainy season peaks in July with a staggering 288 mm of precipitation, followed closely by August and September. Despite the heavy rains, Gopalpur enjoys considerable sunshine, especially in the months from March to May. For more details, visit Gopalpur climate.
Hirakud, India experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. Temperatures range from cool winters with minimums around 10°C (50°F) in December to scorching summers peaking at 44°C (112°F) in May and June. The monsoon season, particularly from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, with July receiving the most at 412 mm (16.2 inches). Despite the rainy months, sunshine is abundant throughout the year, especially in May, which totals 362 hours. For more detailed information, visit Hirakud climate.
Jeypore, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot summers and a prolonged monsoon season. Temperatures peak in April and May, reaching up to 38°C (100°F), while cooler months like January see minimums around 8°C (47°F). Precipitation is significant from June to September, with July and August receiving the highest rainfall, measuring 417 mm (16.4 in) and 450 mm (17.7 in), respectively. Sunshine hours are abundant during the pre-monsoon months, with May having the most, at 356 hours. For a detailed overview, visit Jeypore climate.
Kamakhyanagar, India experiences a tropical climate with varying temperatures throughout the year. January starts cool, with lows around 10°C (50°F), while summer months from March to June can see highs reaching up to 41°C (106°F). Monsoon season peaks in July and August, bringing significant rainfall, with averages of 318 mm and 361 mm respectively, while sunshine is abundant, particularly in May with 349 hours. The average temperature during the year ranges from cool winters to humid summers, making it a unique climate to experience. For more detailed information, check Kamakhyanagar climate.
Khurda, India, experiences a tropical climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winters (December to February) are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 21°C (70°F) to 24°C (75°F), while summer months (March to May) can see highs reaching up to 40°C (104°F). The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, peaking in July with 369 mm (14.5 in). Despite the rain, Khurda enjoys ample sunshine, especially in May, which averages 350 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Khurda climate.
Konarka, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant seasonal rainfall. The temperature ranges from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in May and June, with an average around 28°C (82°F) in the summer months. Rainfall peaks during the monsoon season from June to September, with July and August receiving the most precipitation at 380 mm (15.0 in) and 412 mm (16.2 in), respectively. Despite heavy rains, Konarka enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in April and May, with over 350 hours of sunlight each month. For more details, visit Konarka climate.
The climate in Koraput, India, exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, characterized by warm summers and heavy monsoon rains. Temperatures range from a chilly 8°C (46°F) in January to a peak of 37°C (99°F) in April, while average temperatures are relatively mild, hovering around 25°C (77°F) during the warmer months. Rainfall is significant, particularly in July and August, where it can exceed 400 mm (over 16 inches), contributing to a vibrant landscape. Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with May enjoying the most at 353 hours. For a detailed overview, visit Koraput climate.
The climate in Nilgiri, India, features warm temperatures year-round, with January averaging 19°C (67°F) and reaching a peak of 41°C (106°F) in April and June. Precipitation is highest during the monsoon months of July and August, with recorded rainfall of 297 mm (11.7 in) and 323 mm (12.7 in), respectively. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in May with 350 hours, contributing to a warm and humid environment. Typically, the cooler months of November and December present a mild climate with averages around 24°C (75°F) and 20°C (68°F). For more details, visit Nilgiri climate.
Pipili, India experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. January has mild temperatures ranging from 12°C to 31°C and around 250 sunshine hours, while summer months like April and May can reach highs of 39°C. The monsoon season, peaking in July and August, brings significant rainfall, with July receiving about 392 mm. Overall, the area's climate is characterized by a distinct wet season and dry season, making it essential to check forecasts when planning visits. For more detailed information, visit Pipili climate.
Puri, India, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant monsoon rains. The year begins with mild weather in January (min 15°C/59°F, max 29°C/84°F) and gradually heats up, peaking in May and June with maximums of 35°C (95°F) and 36°C (97°F) respectively. The rainy season, particularly intense from June to September, can bring over 400 mm (15.8 in) of rainfall in July. Despite the rains, Puri enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, with the most hours recorded in May (354 hours). For more detailed information, visit Puri climate.
Raurkela, India experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. Temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) in December to a maximum of 44°C (111°F) in June, often peaking during the summer months of April and May. The city sees significant rainfall, particularly during the monsoon season from June to September, with July recording the highest precipitation at 409 mm (16.1 in). Despite the heavy rains, Raurkela enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, especially in May, which boasts 357 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Raurkela climate.
Sambalpur, India experiences a hot and humid climate, characterized by high temperatures and significant seasonal variation in precipitation. The warmest months are April and May, with average temperatures reaching around 32°C (90°F) and maximums peaking at 43°C (110°F). The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, with July averaging 415 mm (16.3 in). In contrast, the winter months, particularly December and January, witness cooler temperatures and lower precipitation. For more detailed information, visit Sambalpur climate.
Sonepur, India experiences a varied climate with distinct seasons, characterized by hot summers and a significant monsoon. Temperatures range from a cool 10°C (50°F) in December to a scorching 44°C (112°F) in May, with the highest averages occurring between April and June. Rainfall peaks in July and August, receiving over 300 mm (11.8 in) each month, while January and February remain relatively dry. The city enjoys ample sunshine, with over 300 hours of sunshine during most months, contributing to warm conditions throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Sonepur climate.
The climate in Sundargarh, India, features a wide temperature range, with January averaging 20°C (68°F) and rising to 32°C (90°F) in April, peaking at a maximum of 45°C (113°F) in May and June. The region experiences significant rainfall from June to September, with July receiving the highest precipitation at 444 mm (17.5 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, reaching a maximum of 361 hours in May, before declining in the monsoon season. December and January see the lowest temperatures and reduced rainfall. For more detailed information, visit Sundargarh climate.
In conclusion, the climate dynamics of Odisha, India, characterized by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight length, significantly shape the region's environmental and socio-economic fabric. The transition from the mild winter months to the intense summer heat coupled with the monsoon demonstrates the essential interplay between climatic factors and agricultural cycles. Furthermore, understanding the UV Index and daylight duration is crucial for ensuring health and safety for residents and visitors alike. Collectively, these insights emphasize the importance of climate awareness in managing natural resources and promoting sustainable practices in Odisha's vibrant communities.