Freezing weather disrupts life in Panchagarh

The northern district of Panchagarh is once again facing a mild cold wave, with temperatures dropping further on Tuesday.

In the second week of the Bangla month of Poush, light fog and cold winds have made life difficult for people in the area, leaving them struggling to deal with the chilly weather.

According to the Meteorological Office, the lowest temperature of 9.4°C was recorded in Tetulia at 6am on Tuesday. During this time, the humidity in the air was 99%. Earlier, on Monday morning at 9am, the temperature had been recorded at 11.5°C.

Jitendra Nath, assistant in-charge at the Tetulia first-class Meteorological Office, confirmed the matter. He said: “The lowest temperature in Tetulia was recorded at 9.4°C at 6am on Tuesday, with 99% humidity in the air at the time. Yesterday, at 9am, the temperature in Tetulia was recorded at 11.5°C. The temperature may drop further in the coming days.”

A field visit to various areas revealed light fog enveloping the entire region since dawn. In some places, a faint sun was visible. The chilly northern wind has intensified the cold. Despite this, low-income people are braving the fog and cold for their livelihoods. Many were seen trying to ward off the cold by burning straw and sticks.

Day laborer Mizanur Rahman and tea worker Sohrab Hossain said: “The cold has worsened after a few days. It’s biting cold, and even though we don’t feel like going to work, we have to think about our families and go.”

Meanwhile, the cold has led to an increase in diseases like fever, colds, diarrhea, and pneumonia. Every day, the outpatient departments of district and upazila hospitals are seeing a rise in the number of patients. Only those who are seriously ill are being admitted to hospitals. Doctors are providing treatment and essential advice to help people stay healthy.

Earlier, from December 13 to December 18, Panchagarh, known as the "Daughter of the Himalayas," endured a continuous cold wave for six days. According to the Meteorological Office, the district recorded temperatures of 8.4°C on December 13, 9.2°C on December 14, 9.5°C on December 15, 9.4°C on December 16, 9.1°C on December 17, and 8.8°C on December 18.