Bhubaneswar recorded its coldest January day in seven years on Wednesday, as the minimum temperature plunged to 10.2°C, significantly below normal winter levels.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the mercury fell nearly 5°C below the seasonal average, highlighting the intensity of the ongoing cold wave across Odisha. The last colder January night in the city was on January 1, 2019, when the temperature dropped to 9.5°C.

The chill was felt across the state, with at least 23 locations, including Cuttack, recording minimum temperatures below 10°C. Similipal in Mayurbhanj district touched the freezing point at 0°C, while hill station G Udayagiri in Kandhamal emerged as the coldest place in Odisha at 3°C. Frost was also reported in parts of Similipal National Park.

IMD officials attributed the sharp drop in night temperatures to dry, cold winds sweeping across the region. The agency has forecast that cold wave conditions are likely to persist for at least three more days and issued warnings for several districts.

Authorities have advised residents to take precautions, particularly for children, the elderly, and those exposed to the open during early morning and night hours, as Odisha braces for prolonged cold conditions.