The grip of winter has firmly tightened across the country, with northern districts experiencing a particularly sharp drop in temperatures. Mild cold waves are currently sweeping over Panchagarh, Rajshahi, and Chuadanga districts, where the cold intensity has become increasingly severe. Among these regions, Panchagarh recorded a temperature of 8°C, marking the lowest temperature of the season so far.

Weather experts predict that the cold wave could spread further starting next week, with January bringing even colder conditions. Meteorologists fear that temperatures may dip to as low as 3°C in some areas during the peak of winter. According to Dr. Md. Bazlur Rashid, a senior meteorologist, the ongoing cold wave is likely to expand after December 19. While Dhaka may not yet be directly affected by the cold wave, the capital's temperature could drop to 10°C or lower during this period.

Dr. Bazlur Rashid further stated that dense fog, similar to what was experienced last year, is likely to occur this winter. He warned that the overall cold intensity this season may exceed that of the previous year, especially in January when temperatures could drop to three or four degrees Celsius in certain regions.

In its weather forecast issued for the 72 hours starting from 6 PM on Friday, the Meteorological Office reported that a low-pressure system over the southwestern Bay of Bengal near the Sri Lankan coast has weakened and become insignificant. The seasonal low-pressure system remains active over the southern Bay of Bengal, extending up to the northern Bay of Bengal. Additionally, the subcontinental high-pressure belt extends over the western Bay of Bengal and its adjoining areas.

Under these conditions, dry weather with temporary partly cloudy skies is likely to persist across the country. The ongoing mild cold wave in Panchagarh, Rajshahi, and Chuadanga districts is expected to continue. Furthermore, both daytime and nighttime temperatures may decrease slightly nationwide, intensifying the winter chill. The forecast also indicates that moderate to dense fog may occur in some parts of the country from midnight to morning.

Meanwhile, Chuadanga has emerged as one of the coldest areas this winter. On Saturday, December 14, the district recorded a minimum temperature of 8.7°C, making it the lowest temperature recorded in this region so far this season. Data from the weather office shows a consistent drop in Chuadanga's temperatures over the past several days as winter strengthens its hold.

On December 10, the temperature in Chuadanga was recorded at 15°C. The next day, December 11, it dropped to 14°C. The decline accelerated on December 12, when the temperature fell to 10.2°C. On December 13, the temperature dipped further to 9.8°C. Finally, on Saturday morning, the temperature hit a new low of 8.7°C, reflecting the growing severity of the cold wave.

Jaminnur Rahman, the acting officer at the Chuadanga Meteorological Office, reported that the minimum temperature recorded at 6 AM on Saturday was 9.2°C. By 9 AM, the temperature had dropped further to 8.7°C, marking the coldest reading in the district for the current season.

The persistent cold and foggy conditions in Chuadanga have exacerbated the winter's impact on local residents. For the past several days, dense fog has blanketed the area, significantly reducing visibility and disrupting daily life. Public transportation, especially early-morning and late-night travel, has been particularly affected as roads remain cloaked in thick fog. Residents, particularly those in vulnerable communities, are struggling to cope with the sharp drop in temperatures.

The weather office continues to monitor the situation closely, particularly as forecasts indicate that the current cold wave may persist and extend into new areas. Northern and western districts remain most vulnerable to the intensifying cold weather. Residents in these regions are being advised to prepare for colder temperatures and take necessary precautions, particularly during the early mornings and late evenings when temperatures are at their lowest.

For the remainder of December, meteorologists anticipate little relief from the cold. While mild cold waves are already sweeping through certain parts of the country, these conditions are expected to spread and intensify in the coming weeks. The extended weather forecast suggests that January will see the peak of winter, with temperatures in some areas likely to drop close to freezing levels.

The current weather conditions are consistent with the seasonal patterns observed in previous years. Last winter, Bangladesh experienced dense fog and multiple cold waves, which severely affected daily life and economic activities, especially in rural areas. This year, the weather office predicts similar, if not harsher, conditions.

The cold weather poses significant challenges for the country’s northern regions, where poverty and inadequate housing make it difficult for people to stay warm. Farmers, day laborers, and other low-income workers, who are often required to work outdoors, are particularly at risk of cold-related illnesses. Medical experts advise residents to take precautions to avoid exposure, dress in warm clothing, and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of cold-related ailments.

In addition to the cold, the presence of dense fog is expected to persist through much of December and January, particularly in the northern and central regions. The combination of low visibility and icy temperatures creates further hazards for drivers and pedestrians alike. The weather office has urged travelers to exercise caution, particularly during early morning and late-night hours when fog is at its thickest.

As winter strengthens, Bangladesh faces the dual challenge of coping with plummeting temperatures and the disruption caused by dense fog. Weather authorities continue to monitor the cold wave closely and are providing regular updates to ensure the public remains informed and prepared. With January likely to bring even colder weather, residents are being urged to remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to protect themselves and their families.

The spread of cold waves, combined with dense fog, underscores the need for community support and preparedness in the most affected areas. Local authorities and non-governmental organizations are being called upon to distribute warm clothing, blankets, and other essentials to help vulnerable populations endure the winter's harsh conditions.