Mild cold wave grips Bangladesh, sun remains elusive

A mild cold wave continues to affect large parts of Bangladesh, intensifying winter conditions across the country, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said Friday (January 2).

At least 17 districts are currently under the cold wave, with morning and night temperatures dropping significantly. Rajshahi, Pabna, Sirajganj, Dinajpur, Panchagarh, Jashore, Kushtia, Khulna, Barishal, Sylhet, Madaripur and Gopalganj are among the worst affected. Jashore recorded a low of 7.8°C, one of the season’s lowest readings.

Moderate to dense fog has been reported across many areas from morning to midday, reducing visibility and potentially disrupting road, river and air transport, particularly during early hours.

In Dhaka, cold and foggy conditions persist, with the sun largely obscured. The city recorded 13.6°C at 6:00am, with relative humidity at 95 percent, and a minimum of 13.5°C. Thursday’s maximum temperature reached 23.7°C.

The BMD’s Storm Warning Centre said the sky over Dhaka and surrounding areas may remain partly cloudy for six hours from 7:00am. Light winds from the north or northwest at 5–10 km/h are expected. While daytime temperatures may rise slightly, persistent fog is likely to maintain the cold sensation.

The BMD urged caution, warning that dense fog could temporarily affect aviation, inland water transport and road travel. Children, the elderly, and people with health conditions have been advised to take necessary precautions against cold-related risks.