Berhampur: Kandhamal district in Odisha continued to experience severe cold conditions as temperature plummeted in several places. G Udayagiri recorded the state's lowest temperature at 7.2°C on Monday, down from 7.8°C the previous day.
Phulbani and Daringbadi followed closely at 8.5°C and 9.5°C, respectively, while interior regions such as Bramhanigaon, Kotagarh, Belaghara, Raikia and Phiringia experienced temperature between 7°C and 9°C.
"We can't leave our home early in the morning due to severe cold," says Sadasiba Patra, a Phulbani resident. Tribal communities depending on forest produce are particularly affected, as dense fog and low temperatures delay their morning activities.
A thick fog has also blanketed the district, reducing visibility and hampering vehicular movement. Residents in G Udayagiri and Daringbadi have resorted to bonfires to keep themselves warm. "Daily activities in the hill town only begin after sunrise," said A K Sahu, a Daringbadi resident.
Weather experts attributed the cold to waves from the northwest and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh. IMD forecast predicted a 3-4°C drop across the state, including Kandhamal district, over the next three days.
The cold spell has significantly impacted daily life, with most residents remaining indoors during early morning hours.