Temperature may drop to 4°C in Bangladesh

Cold weather has gripped the entire country at the very beginning of the year, and the intensity of winter is expected to increase further over the next month.

During this period, temperatures may fall as low as 4 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Office. It said that up to five cold waves may sweep across different parts of the country in January.

According to the one-month weather outlook, 2–3 mild to moderate cold waves and 1–2 moderate to severe cold waves may occur during January. There is no possibility of cyclones or low-pressure systems forming over the Bay of Bengal during this time. However, normal rainfall is likely across the country, and both daytime and nighttime temperatures may remain close to normal on average.

The weather office also said that from midnight to morning, moderate to dense fog may form in some parts of the country, particularly over river basins, while light to moderate fog may occur elsewhere. In some cases, the fog may persist until noon. Dense fog can reduce the difference between day and night temperatures, intensifying the feeling of cold. During January, normal water flow is expected in the country’s major rivers.

Meteorologists define a cold wave based on minimum temperature levels. When temperatures range between 8.1°C and 10°C, it is considered a mild cold wave. Temperatures between 6.1°C and 8°C indicate a moderate cold wave, while 4.1°C to 6°C is classified as a severe cold wave. If the temperature drops below 4°C, it is termed a very severe cold wave.

Meanwhile, the capital Dhaka is also shivering in the cold. On Saturday morning, the city recorded a minimum temperature of 12.7°C. At 6:00am, humidity levels stood at 99 percent, making the cold feel more intense. Dense fog has added to the discomfort, and the Meteorological Office said such conditions may persist until noon.