Staff Correspondent

The severity of the cold has intensified across the country, impacting not only the northern districts but also the capital city Dhaka during this winter season.

Dense fog blanketed various parts of Dhaka from early Thursday morning, contributing to a significant chill throughout the city.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) reported that Dhaka recorded its lowest temperature of the season on Thursday at 13.8°C, a noticeable drop from 15°C recorded the previous day.

Meanwhile, the lowest temperature nationwide was observed in Chuadanga, where it dipped to 9.8°C under a mild cold wave.

Meteorologist Shahinul Islam attributed the increased chill to the dense fog, which exacerbates the cold sensation.

The BMD has predicted that the current cold weather is likely to persist for several days, with moderate to dense fog prevalent from midnight to noon.

Looking ahead, the BMD forecasts that several cold waves are expected to sweep across the country after 10 January.

"One to two moderate to severe cold waves and two to three mild cold waves are likely in January," said Omar Faruk, a meteorologist at BMD. By meteorological standards, a mild cold wave occurs when temperatures range from 8°C to 10°C, moderate cold waves range from 6°C to 8°C, and severe cold waves are defined by temperatures below 6°C.

The persistent cold has disrupted daily life, particularly in northern regions, where mild cold waves have been reported over the past several days. Thick fog may temporarily disrupt air navigation, inland river transport, and road communication, according to the BMD’s regular weather bulletin. Additionally, a ridge of the sub-continental high-pressure system extends into western Bangladesh, while a seasonal low-pressure area lies over the South Bay, accompanied by a trough reaching the Northeast Bay.

This weather pattern has resulted in dry conditions with partly cloudy skies prevailing across the country.

Nighttime temperatures are expected to remain relatively stable, while daytime temperatures could drop by 1-2°C. Dense fog during the day may further intensify the cold sensation in some areas, particularly as temperatures fall.

With several cold waves anticipated later this month, residents are advised to prepare for fluctuating conditions as winter progresses.