Rajshahi, Dec 29 (V7N) — The northern district of Rajshahi experienced the lowest temperature of the ongoing winter season on Friday, intensifying cold-related hardships for residents amid dense fog and chilling winds.

According to the Rajshahi Weather Observatory, the minimum temperature was recorded at 10.0 degrees Celsius on Friday morning, the lowest so far this winter. A day earlier, on Thursday, the minimum temperature stood at 10.2 degrees Celsius. Meteorologists said cold northerly winds combined with nearly 100 percent humidity in the air have significantly amplified the sensation of cold. Experts warned that if this trend continues, Rajshahi and surrounding districts could experience a mild to moderate cold wave.

Sunrise in Rajshahi was at 6:45 am on Friday, but thick fog prevented sunlight from appearing until nearly 10:00 am. Visibility remained extremely poor across the city and highways, forcing vehicles to move slowly with fog lights switched on until around 11:00 am. Traffic congestion was reported at several points. Although the sun remained visible for much of the day afterward, its intensity was weak, and the cold persisted even in the afternoon due to high moisture levels and cool air.

The severe cold has taken a heavy toll on low- and middle-income groups. Day laborers, construction workers, van pullers, and battery-powered auto-rickshaw drivers have been compelled to head out early in the morning despite dense fog and icy winds in search of livelihoods.

Saiful Islam, a day laborer from Charghat upazila who came to Binodpur market looking for work, said that even after wearing two or three layers of warm clothing, his body shivers from the cold. He added that staying home is not an option, as his family depends on his daily income.

Battery-run auto-rickshaw driver Sujan Ali echoed similar concerns, saying that fewer people are traveling due to the cold, resulting in a sharp drop in passengers. He noted that earnings have declined while driving in such cold conditions has become extremely difficult.

Meanwhile, sales of winter clothing have surged in footpaths, hawkers’ markets, and shopping centers across Rajshahi city. Shops selling sweaters, jackets, shawls, and blankets have seen increased crowds. Low-income and homeless people are flocking to footpath stalls in search of affordable warm clothes.

In several parts of the city, floating and homeless individuals were seen lighting fires with straw and firewood to keep warm. With nighttime temperatures dropping further, their suffering has intensified.

Weather data from recent days show a steady decline in both maximum and minimum temperatures in Rajshahi. On Wednesday, the maximum temperature was 22 degrees Celsius and the minimum was 12.3 degrees, resulting in a narrow gap of 9.7 degrees. On Tuesday, the maximum was 23 degrees and the minimum 13 degrees Celsius, with a difference of 10 degrees. Meteorologists say that a shrinking temperature gap increases the severity of winter conditions.

The weather office stated that if temperatures fall below 10 degrees Celsius, Rajshahi may officially experience a mild cold wave. In response, local administrations and social organizations have begun preparations to distribute blankets and winter clothing among the poor and vulnerable. Authorities fear that if the cold intensifies further, its impact on educational institutions, hospitals, and working populations will deepen.

Rajshahi Weather Office In-Charge Rahidul Islam said the unusually high humidity in the air has worsened the cold. He explained that the reduced difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures causes the body to feel colder more quickly. He confirmed that Friday’s 10.0 degrees Celsius was the lowest temperature recorded in Rajshahi this season, while the lowest temperature across the country was recorded at 9.0 degrees Celsius.

The weather office said it is closely monitoring the situation and will continue issuing regular forecasts and advisories as conditions evolve.

END/MRA/SMA/