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Panchagarh is once again experiencing a mild cold wave as temperatures have dipped to 9.8 degrees Celsius.
The Met Office predicts that the chill will intensify in early January.
After a brief rise, temperatures in the northern district fell to 9.8 degrees Celsius at 9am on Monday, according to the Tentulia Weather Observatory.
On Sunday, the temperature was recorded at 12.9 degrees Celsius in the morning and 28.6 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, while Saturday’s lowest was 9.3 degrees Celsius.
The fluctuating day and night temperatures have caused a rise in cold-related illnesses across the district and Upazilas.
Hospitals in the region are reporting an increasing number of patients suffering from such ailments.
Residents are grappling with the extreme conditions.
Day labourers Md Mozammel and Md Zainul from Sardarpara village in Boda municipality described their struggles with the bone-chilling cold from evening to late morning.
Despite using multiple blankets, they feel the cold seeping in and resort to burning straws in the evenings and early mornings for warmth.
“In the daytime, the sunlight is comforting, but the chill returns with the evening winds,” said Md Dabirul, an easy-bike driver from Satkhamar village in Atwari.
“The morning fog and cold wind make it difficult to grip the vehicle’s handlebar,” he said.
Environmental activist Tanvirul Islam highlighted the impact of climate change, attributing the drastic differences in day and night temperatures to its effects.
He emphasised the importance of prioritising environmental and climate issues.
Jitendra Nath Roy, acting in charge of the Tentulia Weather Observatory, confirmed Monday morning’s lowest temperature of 9.8 degrees Celsius, compared to Sunday’s 12.9 degrees Celsius.
The highest temperature during the day climbed to 28.6 degrees Celsius.
“A mild cold wave occurs when the lowest temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius,” Jitendra explained.
The Meteorological Department has forecast a further drop in temperature and harsher cold at the start of January.