Nine Districts Hit by Cold Wave as Fog, Chill Persist

People riding bikes amid dense fog and chilling wind.

Bangladesh is expected to experience three to five cold waves in January, including the possibility of one severe spell, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

The country is currently under a mild cold wave, which is expected to continue for at least another week. Fluctuating temperatures and dense fog are also likely to persist during the coming days.

In its monthly outlook, the BMD stated that two to three mild to moderate cold waves and one to two moderate to severe cold waves may sweep across Bangladesh this month. A mild cold wave occurs when minimum temperatures range between 8.1°C and 10°C, moderate between 6.1°C and 8°C, and severe between 4.1°C and 6°C. Temperatures below 4°C are considered extremely severe.

At present, nine districts—Rajshahi, Pabna, Naogaon, Sirajganj, Nilphamari, Kurigram, Jashore, Chuadanga, and Kushtia—are experiencing a mild cold wave, which is expected to continue.

Speaking about the forecast, BMD Assistant Meteorologist Kazi Zebunnesa said Dhaka recorded its lowest temperature of the season on 3 January. “Temperatures may fluctuate over the next week. While some areas could see slight rises, others may experience further drops. Two to three moderate cold waves are likely in the first two weeks of January, and one may intensify,” she said.

Dense fog is expected to worsen the cold conditions. Moderate to dense fog may occur over river basins from midnight to morning and, in some areas, persist until noon, reducing sunlight and increasing the chill. Dhaka is likely to remain foggy for most of the coming week.

Reviewing December’s weather, the BMD noted an exceptionally dry month, with nationwide rainfall 99.3% below normal. No rainfall was recorded in the Sylhet, Rangpur, Khulna, Barishal, and Mymensingh divisions. The lowest temperature recorded in December was 7.5°C in Gopalganj on 31 December.

Despite the cold spells, the BMD said no cyclone or depression is expected over the Bay of Bengal in January, and rainfall is likely to remain near normal. Day and night temperatures are expected to stay close to seasonal averages.

Meteorologists cautioned that persistent fog and reduced sunlight may prolong cold conditions and advised people—especially children, the elderly, and outdoor workers—to take necessary precautions in the coming days.