Cold Wave Sweeps 10 Districts as Rajshahi Hits 7°C

A cold wave has tightened its grip on large parts of Bangladesh, with Rajshahi recording the season’s lowest temperature at 7 degrees Celsius on Wednesday morning. The sharp dip has intensified winter discomfort, particularly in northern and western regions, disrupting daily life for thousands of people.

According to the national meteorological office, the cold wave is currently affecting at least 10 districts—Rajshahi, Pabna, Bogura, Dinajpur, Nilphamari, Panchagarh, Rangamati, Jashore, Kushtia and Chuadanga. Dense fog in some areas and chilly winds have further worsened the situation, especially during early morning and late night hours.

Forecasters said both daytime and night-time temperatures may rise slightly during the day. However, the overall weather pattern is expected to remain largely unchanged until January 11, meaning the cold conditions are likely to persist for several more days. A more noticeable rise in temperature is expected from January 12.

The prolonged cold spell is causing particular hardship for low-income communities, day labourers and the elderly, many of whom lack adequate winter clothing. In rural areas, early-morning activities have slowed as people wait for sunlight to ease the biting cold. Hospitals and clinics have also reported an increase in patients suffering from cold-related illnesses, including respiratory infections.

Under meteorological classification, a mild cold wave is defined by minimum temperatures ranging between 10 and 8.1 degrees Celsius. Temperatures between 8 and 6.1 degrees indicate a moderate cold wave, while readings from 6 to 4.1 degrees are considered severe. Any temperature below 4 degrees Celsius falls into the category of a very severe cold wave.

With Rajshahi’s temperature hovering near the moderate cold wave threshold, weather experts have advised people to take precautionary measures, particularly during night-time and early morning hours. Authorities have also urged local administrations and charitable organisations to strengthen efforts to distribute warm clothing to vulnerable groups as the cold spell continues.