A severe cold wave has gripped Odisha, with temperatures dropping significantly across the state. Jharsuguda recorded a bone-chilling 5.1°C, its lowest minimum temperature since 1953. In the capital, the mercury plunged by 7 degrees to reach 7.2°C early Wednesday morning.
The Regional Meteorological Centre reports that 16 cities have recorded sub-10°C temperatures. Major lows include Balasore (5.6°C), Keonjhar (6.4°C), and Paradip (6.2°C). Dense fog warnings have been issued for Nayagarh, Boudh, Koraput, and Kandhamal.
While a well-defined low-pressure area has formed over the Bay of Bengal, experts clarify it will not impact the state. However, the biting cold is expected to intensify over the next four days. Residents are advised to take precautions as the winter chill tightens its hold for at least another 72 hours.