A sweeping cold wave has intensified across the northern border of Panchagarh, with Tetulia recording the lowest temperature in the country.
At 9am on Sunday, the Tetulia Weather Observatory recorded the country’s lowest temperature at 10.5°C, with humidity at 99 per cent.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department described the conditions as a mild cold wave.
The district administration has distributed around 8,000 blankets so far and has requested additional supplies for more than one lakh people, said Panchagarh Deputy Commissioner Kazi Sayemuzzaman.
For the past week, Tetulia has consistently reported minimum temperatures between 11°C and 13°C.
On Saturday, the area also recorded the country’s lowest temperature at 10.5°C. Although the mornings begin with fog and cold winds, bright sunshine later pushes daytime temperatures to 26°C–27°C. As daytime temperatures gradually fall, residents say the cold now feels sharper than before.
Throughout last week, Tetulia topped the list of lowest temperatures nationwide, with 13.2°C recorded on Sunday, 13.1°C on Saturday, 13.2°C on Friday, 13.0°C on Thursday and 12.9°C on Wednesday.
Cloudy skies and weak sunlight kept conditions chilly, with the maximum temperature on those days hovering around 26°C.
Jitendra Nath Roy, officer-in-charge of the Tetulia Weather Observatory, said temperatures have been steadily declining and multiple cold waves are likely this month.
Heavy fog is reducing sunlight, causing residents to feel the chill even during daytime. Local markets empty soon after sunset as people rush indoors, he added.
Hospitals are also seeing a rise in cold-related illnesses, particularly among children and the elderly.
