Dhaka is reeling under an intense cold spell, with biting winds and thick fog amplifying the severity of winter.
The hit of the weather is being borne not only by the general populace but also by the city's impoverished labourers, whose daily struggles have been exacerbated.
According to the 24-hour weather forecast issued by Bangladesh Meteorological Department at 8am on Thursday (2 January), the temperature in the Dhaka region has dropped to 14°C.
Meteorologists have indicated that the narrowing gap between daytime and nighttime temperatures is leading to a heightened perception of moderate to severe cold across various parts of the country.
The combination of chilling winds and dense fog has added to the misery of the homeless population, leaving many struggling to cope. Experts forecast that the biting cold, felt towards the end of the Bengali month of Poush, is likely to persist into the beginning of Magh.
However, a slight rise in nighttime temperatures is expected during this period, alongside a continuation of heavy fog throughout the week.
BMD has also predicted several cold waves in January.
Temperatures may plunge as low as 6°C, with a mild cold wave expected in the initial days of the month.
From 10 January onwards, moderate cold waves may sweep across the country.
Prolonged durations of these cold waves could intensify their severity.
Furthermore, sporadic rainfall is anticipated across different regions on 8 and 9 January, potentially adding to the seasonal challenges.
Meteorologists have noted that this year’s January could be significantly colder compared to recent years, urging citizens to prepare for harsher conditions ahead.
