Cold weather has intensified across Bangladesh, with coastal and hilly areas recording unusually low temperatures, in some cases colder than parts of the northern region.
The coastal upazila of Teknaf in Cox’s Bazar recorded a minimum temperature of 11.2 degrees Celsius on Monday, lower than several northern districts. Cox’s Bazar itself logged its lowest temperature of the season at 13.5 degrees Celsius on Tuesday.
Cold winds blowing at speeds of 15 to 20 kilometres per hour have added to the chill across the district. The neighbouring hilly district of Bandarban also experienced severe cold, with the temperature dropping to 11 degrees Celsius on Monday.
Abdul Hannan, a meteorologist at the Cox’s Bazar Meteorological Office, said it is rare for Teknaf and Bandarban to be colder than northern districts. He said limited sunshine during the day has prevented surface warming, making the cold feel sharper, particularly in rural areas.
In the north, Panchagarh continues to face severe cold conditions. The Tetulia Weather Observatory recorded a minimum temperature of 8.6 degrees Celsius at 9:00am on Tuesday.
Dense fog, high humidity and icy winds have persisted since early morning in the district, disrupting normal life and affecting road transport.
The cold wave has hit low-income groups the hardest, including day labourers, tea workers and van pullers, as work opportunities decline. Reports of cold-related illnesses, particularly among children and elderly people, are also increasing.
The Meteorological Department said a mild cold wave may continue, with temperatures likely to drop further in the coming days.
Photo: TIMESMeanwhile, severe cold has gripped the south-western border district of Satkhira, where the minimum temperature stood at 10.8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday.
Dr Shamsur Rahman, assistant professor at the Pediatric Department of Satkhira Medical College, advised taking special care of children during the cold spell.
He said children should wear warm clothing, including gloves and socks, and should not be taken outside early in the morning.
He also advised avoiding stale food, giving only clean water and seeking medical advice immediately if children show signs of cold-related illness. The same precautions should be followed for elderly people.
