Shivering cold grips country
Staff Reporter :
Bangladesh is currently grappling with a mild cold wave, primarily affecting the northern regions as well as across the country.
This cold snap, which the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) says has been
lingering for two to three days, is notably impacting day labourers, children and the elderly people.
Meanwhile, the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) has allowed the
shutdown of secondary schools if the highest temperature of the districts are located in is below 10°C.
A letter signed by SM Ziaul Haider Henry, Assistant Director (Secondary-2) of the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education was sent to the directors of nine regional offices on Tuesday.
The letter said: "A cold wave is sweeping in different districts of the country. It was learned that the normal activities of the students are being disrupted due to the ongoing cold wave. In the districts where the maximum temperature falls below 10°C (as per the weather forecast proof of the concerned meteorological office), the regional deputy directors will direct the secondary- level educational institutions to be closed.”
Earlier in the day, the DSHE published a letter to allow the shutdown of secondary schools where the highest temperature falls below 17°C. However, the directorate issued a separate notice saying 10°C will be the threshold.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) anticipates this cold wave to persist.
The weather bulletin highlighted the contrasting temperatures across the country, with Sreemangal witnessing the lowest, while Cox’s Bazar reported the highest at 24.5°C.
According to meteorological standards, temperatures ranging from 8-10°C signify a mild cold wave, 6-8°C a moderate one, and below 6°C a severe cold wave.
Moreover, moderate to thick fog is expected to envelop the country from midnight to morning, possibly extending until noon in some areas.
This foggy condition is likely to disrupt air navigation, inland river transport, and road communication temporarily.
The weather forecast suggests dry conditions with temporary partly cloudy skies across the country, with no significant change in night and day temperatures expected. The cold wave’s impact is palpable among the populace, with Dhaka residents and others feeling winter’s bite more acutely in recent days.
The northern regions are experiencing even harsher conditions, where the intense cold has significantly hampered daily activities. Vulnerable groups, particularly day labourers, children, and the elderly are the most affected by the severe cold.
In summary, Bangladesh is currently facing a challenging winter, with lower temperatures affecting daily life and transportation across various regions.
