Bhubaneswar is in the grip of an intense cold wave after the Odisha capital recorded a minimum temperature of9.2°C, its coldest night in the last22 years. The sudden dip has left residents struggling to cope with severe winter conditions.

Elsewhere in the state,Jharsugudaemerged as the coldest place, with the mercury plunging to6.2°Caround 5.30 am on Saturday. Cold wave conditions were reported across several interior as well as coastal districts, highlighting the widespread impact.

Keonjharrecorded a minimum temperature of9°C, while Bhubaneswar later settled at10.2°C.Balasorelogged11.6°C,Chandbali12°C, andParadip12.4°C. In southern coastal areas,Gopalpurregistered14.2°C, while the holy town ofPurirecorded15°C.

TheIndia Meteorological Department (IMD)has warned that the biting cold is likely to continue for the next two weeks due to the inflow of dry, cold northerly winds. IMD officials saidsevere cold wave conditions may persist till January 11.

In view of the prevailing weather, aYellow Warninghas been issued forJharsuguda, Sundargarh, Cuttack, Khordha and Anguldistricts. Residents have been advised to take adequate precautions, particularly during night and early morning hours, as the cold spell is expected to continue.