RANGPUR: A persistent cold wave continues to disrupt daily life in the northern region, forcing residents to remain indoors and significantly reducing vehicle movement on the roads. Despite slight increases in maximum temperatures, the cold has maintained its grip, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as the poor, elderly, and children.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, minimum temperatures remained largely unchanged, with Rangpur recording a consistent 12.5 degrees Celsius. Other areas showed slight variations, with Dinajpur at 10.2 degrees Celsius, Saidpur at 11.8 degrees, Dimla mirroring Rangpur at 12.5 degrees, and Rajarhat at 11.3 degrees. Maximum temperatures ranged between 16.5 and 20.4 degrees Celsius, a slight increase from yesterday’s range of 15.2 to 18.6 degrees.
The sun made a brief appearance late in the afternoon, but it did little to alleviate the cold. The region remained shrouded in thick fog and clouds, with cold winds from the west and northwest exacerbating the chill since Tuesday night. Residents, particularly those in sandy char and riverine areas, reported increased hardships due to the weather.
Health facilities in the region have noted a rise in patients suffering from cold-related ailments such as cough, fever, and asthma. However, hospitals have assured that there are sufficient stocks of medicines and resources to address these conditions. Efforts to distribute warm clothing have been intensified by district administrations, police, and other organizations, nearing the completion of distributing 25,000 government-allocated blankets in Rangpur.
The cold wave is also posing a threat to agriculture, with concerns that it could hamper the growth of Rabi crops if it persists. The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) has been actively assisting farmers to protect their crops, advising irrigation practices and protective measures for seedbeds.
As the cold wave continues unabated, reports from various areas including Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, Gaibandha, Nilphamari, Dinajpur, Thakurgaon, and Panchagarh confirm the widespread impact on daily life, echoing the conditions experienced yesterday.