A widespread cold wave accompanied by dense fog has enveloped much of Bangladesh, stretching from the northern districts through the central regions and down to the south-west. The thick fog has obscured sunlight in many areas, even during the daytime, disrupting normal life and creating hazardous conditions for commuters. According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), the nation’s lowest temperatures fell by an additional one degree Celsius over the past 24 hours.
On Monday, the cold wave was officially observed in twelve districts, including all eight districts of the Rajshahi Division, as well as Kushtia, Chuadanga, Jashore, and Dinajpur. Meteorological experts explained that the dense fog, combined with cold air descending from the Himalayas, has intensified the chill across the country.
In the capital Dhaka and surrounding regions, visibility dropped to between 50 and 100 metres from early morning until noon, significantly affecting road and river transport. On major river routes, services were temporarily suspended: the Daulatdia–Paturia ferry halted operations for nearly seven hours, resuming at 7:15 a.m., while the Manikganj–Aricha–Pabna (Kazirhat) route was closed for almost ten hours before reopening at 9:15 a.m.
The lowest temperature recorded yesterday was 8.4 °C in Ishwardi, Pabna, down from 9.5 °C in Srimangal, Moulvibazar on Sunday. While the temperature in Dhaka rose slightly by one degree Celsius, the dense fog continued to make conditions feel bitterly cold.
Latest Weather Summary
| Location | Lowest Temperature (°C) | Maximum Visibility (m) | Cold Wave Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ishwardi, Pabna | 8.4 | 50–100 | Severe |
| Srimangal, Moulvibazar | 9.5 | 70–100 | Moderate |
| Dhaka | 12 | 50–70 | Dense Fog |
| Rajshahi Division (8 districts) | 10–11 | 60–90 | Severe |
Meteorologist Tariful Newaz Kabir noted that the cold wave has slightly expanded in coverage, with overall temperatures continuing to fall. He cautioned that citizens could experience the intense chill for several more days, though a minor temperature rise is expected on Tuesday and Wednesday.
In response, the Directorate General of Health Services has instructed all hospitals nationwide to implement emergency measures. These include mandatory bi-daily rounds in paediatric and medicine wards, adequate blankets and mosquito nets for admitted patients, and stockpiling essential medicines and equipment for winter-related illnesses. Hospitals have also been directed to repair damaged structures promptly to prevent cold air from entering.
The dense fog and cold wave are currently impacting daily life, transport networks, and healthcare services across Bangladesh. Experts warn that citizens should remain vigilant, as relief from the harsh conditions is unlikely in the immediate future.