Bhubaneswar, Dec 1 (ANI): Unexpected cold breeze and temperature touching eight degrees mark has paralysed normal life in Orissa.

Several regions in the State have recorded quite a substantial dip in their temperatures, a record fall in the last 50 years.

"For the last seven to eight days, the wind pattern is northerly or north-easterly. So, it causes the flow of wind from northeastern parts of the country or from the Himalayan region towards this region. So, it causes a drop in temperature," said S. C. Sahu, Director of Regional Meteorological Centre.

"Another reason is that these days we are having a overcast sky, so the night time cooling is there. It is also adding some drop in temperature also," he added.

The cold weather has compelled most of the locals to stay indoors or retiring for the day, soon after dusk.

"It's very cold now, really cooler than before. It is a big problem for the poor people here who do not have shelter. Somehow, we are still managing and coping with the chilly breeze," said Basanti, a local.

Among the worst hit are the western part of the state and the interior regions such as Kandhamal.

According to the meteorological observatory, the weather will continue for a few more days. (ANI)