Patiala, Dec. 30 -- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Punjab for the next 48 hours, warning that the extreme weather is likely to continue across the state for another four to five days.

There was no let-up in the severe cold across Punjab on Monday as dense fog enveloped most parts of the state, sharply reducing visibility, the meteorological department said. Ballowal Saunkhri in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district was the coldest place in Punjab at 2.4 degrees Celsius.

According to the country's nodal weather agency's forecast, Punjab's day temperatures (maximum temperatures) are expected to dip further over the next three to four days, intensifying the winter chill.

"Rainfall activity is also likel...