Thick fog, cloudy skies, and chilly weather have persisted across the country since Wednesday and are expected to continue for a few more days, with moderate to dense fog from midnight until noon, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).
Chuadanga recorded the lowest temperature in the country at 9.8°C on Thursday morning as a mild cold wave swept through the northern regions of the country. These regions have been experiencing mild cold waves over the past few days. However, the BMD has forecasted, "Several cold waves are likely to sweep across the country after January 10."
In this situation, people of all age groups, including the elderly in these regions, particularly in Dhaka city, are struggling to cope with the sudden cold weather. People in the northern districts have been feeling the cold the most, with the elderly suffering significantly.
In almost all districts, including Dhaka city, the sun was not visible during the day. Heavy fog blanketed the northern districts all day. People outside the capital city, especially in the northern region, began the day with an icy and foggy morning.
Many low-income people, including day labourers and rickshaw pullers in these regions, are severely suffering from the cold as they do not have warm clothes. They are struggling to cope with the cold and are unable to work in the fields or bring out their vehicles onto the streets.
People reported that with the advent of evening, fog covered the city. Lower-income individuals kept themselves warm by burning hay and wood.
A large number of people were seen purchasing warm clothes from different shopping malls and clothing stores, while lower-income individuals gathered at street hawkers' markets to buy clothes for themselves and their family members at lower prices.
The BMD stated that the cold weather gripping Bangladesh is expected to persist for a few more days, with moderate to dense fog from midnight until noon.
Meteorologist at BMD, Omar Faruk, said that one to two moderate to severe cold waves and two to three mild cold waves are likely in January. He predicted that January may bring a sharp drop in temperatures, with the possibility of multiple severe cold waves.
The BMD's regular weather bulletin also warned that thick fog may temporarily disrupt air navigation, inland river transport, and road communication. The weather is expected to remain dry, with a temporarily partly cloudy sky prevailing across the country.
As per meteorological definitions, temperatures between 8 and 10 degrees Celsius indicate a mild cold wave, while 6 to 8 degrees Celsius signify a moderate cold wave. Severe cold waves occur when temperatures fall below 6 degrees Celsius.
Faruk said that nighttime temperatures may remain nearly unchanged, while daytime temperatures could drop by 1-2°C. Dense fog during the day may intensify the cold sensation in some areas.
