Winter
Biting cold and chilling winds disrupt daily life in Naogaon
The harsh chill and freezing winds have once again brought life to a standstill in Naogaon, disrupting daily activities and leaving vulnerable groups struggling to cope. Day laborers, rickshaw pullers, and low-income workers are among the hardest hit by the frigid weather conditions.
As of Thursday morning, the minimum temperature in Naogaon was recorded at 10.3°C, with 100% humidity, according to Naogaon’s Badalgachhi Weather Observatory. The cold has intensified over the past two days, creating a freezing environment despite occasional sunshine.
Moderate cold wave with fog likely across the country: BMD
Residents report that the cold has grown more severe since the last two days. While morning fog has lessened, the icy winds have amplified the cold’s impact. For many, the chill is particularly harsh from evening until mid-morning. Roads have seen fewer workers compared to usual, as many are unable to brave the worsening conditions.
Liton Hossain, a rickshaw puller from Barunkandi in Naogaon Sadar Upazila, shared his struggles: "The cold has become unbearable over the past two days. The winds are so harsh it’s difficult to even drive the rickshaw, and passengers are few and far between."
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Mizanur Rahman, an official at the Badalgachhi Weather Observatory, confirmed the drop in temperature: "This morning at 9 am, the district recorded a minimum temperature of 10.3°C, compared to 11.8°C yesterday. The chilling winds are making the cold feel much harsher."
The sudden increase in cold intensity has forced many to limit outdoor activities, highlighting the need for support for those who depend on daily labor to survive.
1 month ago
Winter is hitting Gaza and many Palestinians have little protection from the cold
As winter sets in, nearly 2 million Palestinians displaced by 14 months of war in the Gaza Strip face severe hardships, struggling to shield themselves from the cold, rain, and wind.
Aid workers and residents report that families lack sufficient blankets, warm clothing, and firewood. Many are living in worn-out tents and makeshift shelters that have deteriorated due to prolonged use. Shadia Aiyada, who fled Rafah for Muwasi, shares a fragile tent with her eight children, relying on a single blanket and a hot water bottle to keep warm.
"We panic whenever we hear forecasts of rain and wind because our tents barely hold up," Aiyada said. "I worry my children will get sick without proper clothing."
Having escaped with only summer attire, her family now depends on borrowed clothes to endure the cold. Night temperatures in Gaza often drop to the mid-to-high single digits Celsius (40s Fahrenheit), increasing the risk of illness, especially among children.
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The United Nations has highlighted the precarious conditions, warning that makeshift shelters may not survive the winter. According to the U.N., at least 945,000 people urgently need winterization supplies, which have become unaffordable in Gaza. Rising malnutrition and the threat of infectious diseases further compound the crisis.
The U.N. Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has distributed 6,000 tents in northern Gaza over the past month but has been unable to deliver supplies to other areas due to ongoing hostilities. Essential items like 600,000 blankets and 33 truckloads of mattresses remain stuck in Jordan and Egypt, awaiting Israeli approval for transport. Many stored supplies have already been damaged by weather or looted.
The International Rescue Committee is also facing obstacles in delivering children’s winter clothing, citing lengthy approval processes from authorities. Dionne Wong, the group’s deputy director, emphasized the limited ability of Palestinians to prepare for winter.
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Israel's government claims to have collaborated with international organizations to deliver heaters, clothing, tents, and blankets. However, aid workers say the supplies are far from adequate.
The war has killed over 45,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The ministry states that more than half the casualties are women and children, though Israel claims to have killed over 17,000 militants. The war began after Hamas attacked southern Israel in October 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 hostages.
Negotiators are reportedly making progress toward a ceasefire that could increase aid flow, but for now, displaced families face harsh conditions. Most cannot afford winter clothes, which have become prohibitively expensive.
Reda Abu Zarada, 50, displaced from northern Gaza, described nights spent huddling with her children to keep warm. She fears rats that roam their torn tent and dreads the possibility of finding her children frozen.
Omar Shabet, displaced from Gaza City, avoids lighting fires to stay warm, fearing airstrikes.
"We stay inside our tent after sunset because it gets unbearably cold," he said. "My 7-year-old daughter cries at night from the cold."
1 month ago
Dhaka wakes up to dense fog as winter deepens
The residents of Dhaka woke up to a blanket of dense fog on Saturday morning as temperatures dropped significantly, disrupting daily life.
The city experienced a chilly 16 degrees Celsius, according to the Met Office bulletin issued on Friday.
A thick layer of fog enveloped the city, forcing vehicles to use headlights during daylight hours.
Panchagarh sees foggy weather
Commuters struggled to find transport in time due to poor visibility.
Many city dwellers opted to stay indoors, particularly as several educational institutions remained closed following the end of annual examinations.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) forecast light to moderate fog in parts of the country from midnight to Saturday morning.
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Nighttime temperatures are expected to rise by 1-2°C, while daytime temperatures may drop slightly.
On Friday, the country's highest temperature of 31°C was recorded in Bandarban and Sandwip, while the lowest temperature of 10.7°C was noted in Tetulia on Thursday.
2 months ago
Chill grips Jashore; buyers throng markets for warm clothes
The sale of winter clothes has increased at shops and different markets in Jashore town as cold has tightened its hold in the region for the last few days.
According to the Bangladesh Metrological Department , the temperature in Jashore dropped to 12.6°C on Wednesday, compared to a daytime high of 27.8°C and the same trend continued from Friday to Tuesday.
As the cold becomes more biting, people have been flocking to winter clothes shops.
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Makeshift stalls on Mujib Road, the Zila Parishad’s second-hand clothing market, and the Collectorate market are buzzing with buyers.
Mujib Road footpath stalls and the Zila Parishad’s old clothes market saw a significant rush on Friday and Saturday.
Shoppers were seen selecting sweaters, hoodies, caps, jackets, trousers and full-sleeve shirts for themselves and their families.
Visiting the makeshift shops the UNB correspondent found sweaters priced between Tk 250 and Tk 300, hoodies from Tk 250 to Tk 400, caps and shirts from Tk 150 to Tk 350, jackets from Tk 300 to Tk 700, trousers from Tk 100 to Tk 300, and full-sleeve shirts ranging from Tk 60 to Tk 100.
Arif Hossain, a vendor at Mujib Road footpath , said, “Hoodies, trousers and full-sleeve shirts for children are selling well. The increased cold has boosted sales.”
Another vendor, Siam, said they have displayed a variety of items to attract buyers.
Harun Gazi, a trader at the Zila Parishad market, said there is high demand for children’s sweaters, jackets, and hoodies but sale of clothing for adults remained relatively low.
Mild cold wave sweeps Chuadanga, intensifying winter conditions
Sayera Khatun, a shopper at the market, said, “It’s getting colder. I came to buy winter clothes for my daughter and got her a sweater and a cap.”
Another shopper, Shamsher Ali, shared, “I bought winter clothes for my young grandchildren.”
Poppy Khatun and Asma Begum said prices of new clothes seemed higher than last year although second-hand clothing remained affordable.
BMD predicts cooler nights ahead
Arman Hossain, another vendor, expects sales to increase further as the cold will intensify in the coming weeks. “With Poush approaching, colder weather is likely, and business will pick up even more. Sales are already better than last year.”
2 months ago
Rain forecasted in parts of Bangladesh amid winter
Bangladesh Meteorological Department has predicted rains in parts of Bangladesh including in Dhaka division from Friday amid the winter, that may further intensify the cold weather.
“Moderate to heavy rainfall is likely at places over Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal and Chattogram divisions during next 72 hours commencing 6 am of 20 December,” said a Met office bulletin on Tuesday.
Dry weather, fog, mild cold wave continue across Bangladesh: BMD
The low pressure area lies over central parts of South Bay of Bengal and adjoining area, its associated trough extends up to North Bay, it said.
Ridge of sub-continental high extends upto West Bengal and adjoining area.
Weather may remain dry with temporary partly cloudy sky over the country in 24 hours from 9am on Tuesday.
Night temperature may rise slightly and day temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country.
Temperature may fall further in next 5 days: BMD
Light to moderate fog may occur at places over the country during midnight till morning.
Country’s lowest temperature was recorded at Tentulia at 09.01 degrees Celsius today.
2 months ago
Mild cold wave sweeps Chuadanga, intensifying winter conditions
The temperature of Chuadanga, the southwestern district of the country, has dropped to 9.3 degrees Celsius by 9am on Sunday, intensifying winter conditions.
Rakibul Hasan, senior observer at the Meteorological Office, reported that the temperature was recorded at 9.5°C at 6 am., and it further dropped to 9.8°C by 9 am., with the humidity reaching 88%.
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A mild cold wave is sweeping across Chuadanga, bringing with it a severe drop in temperature. As a result, the people in the region are enduring harsh winter conditions.
According to the Chuadanga Meteorological Office, winter has been affecting Chuadanga district since the start of this month.
However, the temperature is expected to rise slightly, bringing an end to the cold wave by the end of the day. Following this, the weather will become more tolerable as temperatures gradually increase.
Meanwhile, the harsh weather has led to a surge in cold-related illnesses, particularly among vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
BMD predicts cooler nights ahead
In addition, farmers are increasingly concerned about the dense fog.
Earlier, the district’s Agricultural Extension Department issued a warning that the high fog density and its persistence could negatively impact the newly planted paddy seedbeds, potentially hindering crop growth.
2 months ago
Chuadanga shivers as temperature drops to 9.8°C
The temperature of Chuadanga, the southwestern district of the country, has dropped to 9.8 degrees Celsius by 9am on Friday.
A mild cold wave is blowing over the region today. The temperature will drop further day by day, according to Rakibul Hasan, senior observer of the Meteorological Office, Chuadanga.
The temperature was recorded at 10 degrees Celsius at 6 am and further dropped to 9.8 degrees Celsius by 9am on Friday morning, accompanied by 88% humidity.
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Meanwhile, the harsh weather has led to a surge in cold-related illnesses, particularly among vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
Dr Rakib Sadi, resident medical officer at Chuadanga Sadar Hospital said that approximately 3,000 patients received treatment in the past week alone and among them, the number of children and the elderly is high.
Besides, the farmers are more concern about the dense fog. The district agricultural extension department warned that high fog density and stability could adversely affect new paddy seedbeds.
2 months ago
Winter shopping frenzy in Narayanganj as cold weather sets in
As winter weather sets in, the demand for warm clothing has started to rise in Narayanganj, with both city markets and street stalls seeing a boom in sales.
The streets and rural areas are now covered in fog, signaling the arrival of colder temperatures.
While light fog was observed in urban areas in the morning, it cleared by midday, but the temperature continues to drop, making warm clothes increasingly necessary.
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The cold weather has led to a change in people's clothing preferences, with many starting to wear warm items like sweaters, jackets, gloves, earmuffs, and shawls.
As a result, the sale of winter clothes has picked up, with small traders setting up stalls along roadsides and in markets across the city, including popular areas like Chashara Hawkers Market, Salimullah Road, Bangabandhu Road, and Shayesta Khan Road.
Shops and stalls are now filled with a wide variety of winter clothes for all ages, from children to the elderly. Both new and second-hand clothing is available, with colorful sweaters, jackets, woolen gloves, socks, earmuffs, and more on display.
Kurigram battles intense winter, poor desperate for warm clothing
Shoppers have been flocking to these markets, especially in the evenings, to buy clothes for themselves and their families.
In Chashara, several shops near the Hawkers Market have already started selling winter clothes.
Shoppers are roaming through the stalls, picking out items they like, while others continue to compare prices and styles at different shops.
Many people are buying clothes for their children, parents, or for themselves. According to the sellers, the evening hours see the highest number of customers.
Vendors said that sales are brisk during the early winter, with the demand for warm clothing growing due to the cool weather.
However, they note that sales typically slow down as winter progresses. The clothes available in these markets are sourced from various local garment factories, as well as from countries like China and the Philippines.
Winter cloth sale rises on Lalmonirhat footpaths
Some vendors have informed that their stalls are particularly popular due to the affordable prices.
Deep Hossain Fahim, a seller in Chashara, mentioned that velvet T-shirts from China and the Philippines are in high demand, especially among young people. "The sales are good, but we know that towards the end of winter, demand will decrease," he said.
Other sellers, like Md. Saiful Islam, offer a variety of winter items, including sweaters, jackets, and full-sleeve T-shirts made of thick fabric.
Shimu Akhter, who was at a stall with her mother and daughter, said that the colder weather prompted her to buy winter clothes for her child.
"The weather office says it will be colder this year, so I am looking for good winter clothes at affordable prices. The prices here are much lower than in the shopping malls," she added.
Another shopper, Jahangir, shared that he prefers buying local winter clothes as he prepares for cold weather abroad. "I lived in Europe for a long time and prefer buying locally made clothes because they are often cheaper and of good quality," he said.
Other shoppers, like Lata Debnath and Tasmia Akhter, also expressed satisfaction with the variety and prices of winter clothes available at the stalls on the footpath. Many people are choosing to buy from these stalls, finding good deals and a wide selection of items, compared to the higher prices in bigger stores.
Lata Debnath said, "Winter has arrived, and I need to buy warm clothes. I also need to buy clothes for my parents, so I came with my mother to shop."
Overall, the winter clothes market in Narayanganj is thriving as people gear up for the colder months, with both large shops and small street vendors contributing to the rise in sales.
2 months ago
Kurigram battles intense winter, poor desperate for warm clothing
Kurigram is currently under the grip of an intense winter, with temperatures plummeting and fog covering roads and fields from midnight until morning.
The chill is so severe that it has disrupted normal life and left many, especially the poor, desperate for warm clothing.
Winter cloth sale rises on Lalmonirhat footpaths
On Tuesday morning, the temperature in the district was recorded at a chilling 15.5 degrees Celsius. For the most vulnerable—homeless individuals, day labourers, and low-income families—this cold is more than just uncomfortable; it is a daily struggle for survival.
In Jagmohan Char, a remote river island in Bhogdanga union, residents are bracing against the bitter cold. “It’s very difficult in the cold. I can’t even work on time,” said one local.
Winter settles over Bangladesh: Cooler days and nights ahead
“Since yesterday, it’s been so cold that we can’t go out of the house. At night, it’s also very uncomfortable in bed. We are poor people; even if we could get 1-2 blankets, it would be a great help,” he added.
These words reflect the plight of hundreds across Kurigram, especially in areas bordering the district’s rivers. The region is home to over 300 chars (river islands) and island chars, where low-income communities are suffering without adequate winter protection.
The relentless cold and dense fog have left labourers and daily wage workers in an agonizing position, forcing them to work outdoors with minimal warmth.
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The Kurigram Weather official Subal Chandra Sarkar said the temperature in the region has been fluctuating between 12-16 degrees Celsius over the past 15 days, with the potential for a cold wave to hit the area by mid-December.
In addition to the discomfort, local hospitals are witnessing an uptick in cold-related illnesses, as people struggle to stay healthy amid the freezing temperatures, he added.
2 months ago
Winter settles over Bangladesh: Cooler days and nights ahead
As winter deepens across Bangladesh, a distinct drop in temperatures is being observed nationwide.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) forecast cooler days and nights, with temperatures expected to decline further in the coming weeks.
In its latest 72-hour forecast issued Tuesday night, the BMD said that nighttime temperatures are likely to fall by 1–2°C, while daytime temperatures could also experience a slight decline.
The weather is expected to remain mostly dry, with light to moderate fog in some areas during the late night and early morning hours.
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A seasonal low-pressure system over the South Bay of Bengal and its extension into the northeastern Bay has contributed to these conditions, marking the transition into a more typical winter pattern.
The five-day extended outlook suggests temperatures may dip even further, intensifying the chill across the country.
December: A Time of Mild Yet Distinctive Winters
December heralds a shift in Bangladesh's climate, characterised by dry conditions, cooler nights, and pleasant days.
According to international weather monitoring agencies, the average daytime highs in most regions range between 25°C and 27°C, while nighttime lows fall to around 14°C to 17°C.
Cities like Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet experience low humidity levels and abundant sunshine, making the weather conducive to outdoor activities and travel.
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Dhaka: Daytime temperatures typically hover between 16°C and 26°C, with little to no rainfall.
Chattogram: The coastal city enjoys mild winter weather, with temperatures ranging from 17.5°C to 25°C.
Sylhet: Known for its hilly terrain, Sylhet experiences cooler conditions, with lows reaching 13°C.
Historical Context and Cultural Significance
Winter in Bangladesh is a season of festivities and agricultural activities.
Farmers utilise this time to cultivate crops like rice and vegetables under favourable conditions.
Cities and rural areas alike embrace the cooler weather, with fairs, weddings, and outdoor events in full swing.
But, the chillier nights and potential fog can pose challenges for vulnerable communities, particularly in northern districts, where temperatures tend to be lower.
Travellers are advised to exercise caution during early morning hours when visibility may be reduced due to fog.
Light rains likely in Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram divisions
Advisory for Residents and Visitors
The BMD recommends light jackets for evenings and early mornings and staying updated on weather conditions, especially for those traveling long distances.
International visitors are encouraged to explore Bangladesh during this period, with key destinations like Cox’s Bazar, the Sundarbans, and tea gardens in Sylhet offering an ideal blend of pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
As the winter chill intensifies, Bangladesh prepares to embrace a season of natural beauty, cultural celebrations, and a much-anticipated respite from the heat.
2 months ago