Odisha shivered under an intense cold wave on Tuesday as Jharsuguda recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 5.1°C.
Rourkela followed at 6.6°C, Sundargarh at 7.6°C, and hill station Daringbadi at 7.5°C.
Western and interior districts reported severe chill. Bolangir stood at 8.8°C, Keonjhar and Phulabani at 9°C each, and Sonepur at 9.1°C. Dhenkanal hovered just below double digits at 9.9°C.
Cuttack, Baripada, and Koraput recorded 10°C, while Bhubaneswar dipped to 12.9°C. Puri registered 14.6°C, showing the widespread impact of the cold wave across the state.
Daily life slowed in several towns. In Jharsuguda, workers lit small fires to keep warm before starting their day. “The cold has increased suddenly. It is difficult to start work before sunrise,” said Ramesh Sahu, a local resident. In Cuttack, shopkeepers delayed opening hours as icy winds swept through the city. “Winter this year feels harsher. We are wearing extra layers even during the day,” said Anita Das from Badambadi.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted a further drop of 2–4°C in the coming three days. Officials urged residents to take precautions, especially during the night and early morning hours, as the cold wave is expected to persist.
The Bhubaneswar–Cuttack region, along with western Odisha, continues to face biting cold, reinforcing the need for vigilance during this prolonged winter spell.
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