RANGPUR, Jan 4, (V7N) -  The northern town of Tentulia recorded the country's lowest temperature today at 9.4°C, as a mild cold wave persisted in the region. However, weather conditions improved significantly in other parts of northern Bangladesh, offering much-needed relief to residents.

According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), minimum temperatures across the region mostly remained unchanged, while maximum temperatures saw slight increases over the past 24 hours, bringing respite to the common people.

Temperature Updates

Tentulia: 9.4°C (lowest in the country)

Rangpur: 12.5°C

Dinajpur: 12°C

Saidpur: 11.8°C

Dimla (Nilphamari): 12°C

Rajarhat (Kurigram): 13°C

Maximum temperatures ranged between 24°C and 26.6°C across the region, marking a noticeable improvement.

The appearance of the sun and clear skies free from fog and clouds brought relief for the second consecutive day. The milder weather allowed normal activities to resume, including work in crop fields and farmlands. Vehicular movement on roads and highways also returned to usual levels, except in parts of Panchagarh district, where the cold wave continues.

Earlier this week, severe cold had disrupted daily life, forcing thousands to stay indoors as cooler winds and fog dominated the region.

Hospitals, upazila health complexes, and community clinics reported continued influxes of patients suffering from cold-related illnesses such as cough, fever, and asthma. Authorities assured that there are adequate stocks of medicines and special measures in place to treat affected individuals, particularly children and the elderly.

Efforts to distribute warm clothing to the cold-hit population have been intensified by district administrations, NGOs, and other charitable organizations:

Rangpur: 30,000 blankets distributed so far.

Kurigram: 32,000 blankets allocated and distributed.

Agriculture officials are actively supporting farmers to protect winter crops and Boro rice seedlings from cold injuries. Farmers are advised to:

Irrigate seedbeds at night and discharge water in the morning.

Use polythene sheets to cover seedbeds for added protection.

Md Obaidur Rahman Mondal, Additional Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) for the Rangpur region, emphasized ongoing monitoring and guidance for farmers to safeguard their crops amid fluctuating temperatures.

With a mild cold wave lingering in parts of the region, authorities continue their efforts to mitigate the impact on vulnerable populations while hoping for further improvement in weather conditions in the coming days.

END/CLM/RH/