Bhubaneswar, Nov. 18 -- A severe cold wave has tightened its grip over Odisha, with several districts shivering under plummeting temperatures. Kandhamal, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, and Khordha are among the worst affected as the mercury continues to fall steadily.

According to early morning reports, Jharsuguda recorded 11degC at 5:30 am on Tuesday. In Kandhamal's G. Udayagiri, the temperature dropped even further, touching a biting 5.4degC, making it one of the coldest regions in the state. On Monday, six towns recorded temperatures below 10degC, indicating the intensifying winter conditions.

Meanwhile, dense fog in several areas has disrupted normal life. With visibility remaining poor until around 11 am, transportation has been hit badly...