Baripada, Jan 9: A severe cold wave continues to sweep across Odisha, with several regions recording a sharp drop in temperatures. Jharsuguda once again witnessed extreme cold, with the mercury dipping to 5.6°C by 5:30 a.m. The capital city, Bhubaneswar, also experienced falling temperatures, recording a minimum of 11.6°C. The Meteorological Department has forecast that the intense cold conditions are likely to persist across the state for the next seven days.

Similipal is bearing the brunt of the cold, with frost formation reported in several areas. The mercury plunged to sub-zero levels, touching –1°C, severely affecting normal life. Frost was observed in Upper Barhakhamuda, Debasthali, Kumari and Gurugudia, while dense fog blanketed the region, adding to the biting cold. Cold wave conditions along with thick fog continue to prevail in the Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary and its adjoining foothill areas, including Jashipur, Thakurmunda, Karanjia, Raruan and Sukruli blocks.

According to the Similipal Tiger Project authorities, the minimum temperature recorded by 6 a.m. today stood at –1°C in Upper Barhakhamuda, 2°C in Chahala and Gurugudia, and 5°C in Barehipani.

Meanwhile, Sundargarh district is also experiencing bone-chilling cold. Frost accompanied by severe cold has been reported from Koida and Tensa. To cope with the cold, people are lighting fires at various places, while tea stalls are witnessing large crowds in the early morning hours. Many residents are also taking up physical exercises to keep themselves warm. Severe cold conditions, along with frost, have been reported from several parts of the district, including Rourkela and Koida.