The ongoing severe cold in Meherpur has crippled daily life, with temperatures plummeting and a thick fog enveloping the area. Despite the harsh winter conditions, the administration is yet to allocate warm clothing for the cold-stricken population. As temperatures continue to drop, residents have been battling the bitter cold by burning straw to stay warm. In the past week alone, 1229 patients, including 350 children, 509 women, and 370 men, have sought treatment at local hospitals due to illnesses caused by the cold Meherpur General Hospital, along with health complexes in Gangni and Mujibnagar, has reported a significant increase in cold-related cases, with many suffering from pneumonia, diarrhea, and respiratory issues. On Thursday, the Chuadanga Meteorological Office recorded the temperature in Chuadanga and Meherpur at 10.2°C at both 6 am and 9 am. Humidity levels were at 97%. The local weather office predicted the temperature will continue to drop in the coming days, with a cold wave expected to begin shortly. Rakibul Hasan, a senior meteorological observer at the Chuadanga Weather Office, said, "Fog covered the sky on Thursday, and the sky remained cloudy due to a low-pressure system. This weather is expected to continue tomorrow. A cold wave may begin in a few days, further lowering the temperature." Dry weather, fog, mild cold wave continue across Bangladesh: BMD The drop in temperature has left life in a standstill, with vehicles moving slowly and headlights on even during the day due to the dense fog. People and animals alike are struggling to survive in the harsh conditions, with many flocking to shops selling warm clothes. In addition to the rise in cold-related illnesses, the district’s hospitals are overwhelmed with patients. In Meherpur, 254 children, 363 women, and 293 men have been admitted to the 250-bed General Hospital in the past week alone. Similarly, 94 patients have been admitted to the Mujibnagar Upazila Health Complex, and 225 patients have been admitted to the Gangni Upazila Health Complex. Over three lakh people in the district are facing severe hardship due to the lack of warm clothes, with no government assistance provided so far. While a few voluntary organizations and individuals have distributed some warm clothing, there is still a dire need for more. Dr Jamir Mohammad Hasibus Sattar, superintendent of Meherpur General Hospital, said, "Most patients have come to the hospital in the past few days with cold-related illnesses. Diseases such as cold, cough, pneumonia, and breathing problems, along with cold-related diarrhea, are affecting many, particularly children and the elderly. We are advising people to keep children in warm places and to protect the elderly from cold-related diseases. We recommend staying indoors as much as possible and keeping themselves warm." Winter shopping frenzy in Narayanganj as cold weather sets in Meherpur Civil Surgeon Dr Mahid Uddin, said, "As the cold intensifies, various diseases are spreading. Health workers have been instructed to provide home healthcare, and sufficient medicines have been supplied to each union health center." Meherpur Deputy Commissioner Sifat Mehnaz said, "So far, no blankets, warm clothes, or cash have been allocated for the cold-stricken people. Only 400 blankets from the NGO ASHA have been distributed through institutional channels. However, discussions have taken place with the Director General of the Disaster and Relief Ministry, and the Meherpur District Council has decided to purchase blankets worth Tk 25 lakh for the cold-stricken people."    

Panchagarh experienced the country’s lowest temperature on Friday morning, with the mercury dropping to 8.4 degrees Celsius. At 6 am, the temperature stood at nine degrees Celsius and fell further to 8.4 degrees by 9 am. Cold air from the Himalayas caused the temperature drop, according to Jitendranath Roy, officer-in-charge of the Tetulia Meteorological Office. Chuadanga shivers as temperature drops to 9.8°C The cold weather has severely impacted the district's vulnerable communities. Many daily wage earners, agricultural workers, and labourers have been unable to work due to the chill. Lacking sufficient warm clothing, they are struggling to survive. Delwar Hossain, a battery-run autorickshaw driver, said, “Dense fog and wind make it impossible to drive in the morning. Few passengers travel during this time, and my income has dropped.” Similarly, day labourer Lutfar Mia said, “Winter reduces work opportunities, and I am struggling to provide for my family.” Dry weather, fog, mild cold wave continue across Bangladesh: BMD Tea worker Aleya Khatun shared her struggles, saying, “In the morning, the dense fog wets the tea plants, making it difficult to pluck leaves. My hands and feet go numb from the cold.” District Agricultural Extension Officer Md Abdul Matin said, despite the cold, the weather benefits agriculture, particularly the cultivation of potatoes, wheat and corn. However, the cold has also increased patient numbers, particularly among children and the elderly. Panchagarh Civil Surgeon Dr Md Mostafizur Rahman said hospitals face greater pressure on outpatient and inpatient departments as winter-related illnesses rise. Dense fog halts Paturia-Daulatdia ferry route for 6 hours Panchagarh Deputy Commissioner Md Sabet Ali reported distributing 2,000 blankets through the upazila nirbahi officers of the district’s five upazilas. He added that the administration has requested additional allocations from higher authorities.  

Chuadanga and Gopalganj have been shivering as a cold wave coupled with wind is sweeping the districts. Chuadanga weather office recorded the country’s lowest temperature at 10.2 degree Celsius in Chuadanga and nearby Gopalganj district on Thursday. Vehicles were seen moving with headlights on Thursday morning to avoid accident due to poor visibility, taking time to reach destination. Read: Severe cold grips Kurigram, low-income residents hit hard The low-income people, day labourers are the worst sufferers amid the knee-shaking cold as they have to move out of home to earn bread. Rakibul Hasan, senior observer at Chuadanga First Class Weather Observatory Office, said the humidity in the wind was 97 percent at 9am. He said cold may increase in the next few days.

The northern district of Kurigram has started experiencing cold weather as the temperature continues to drop coupled with dense fog, throwing daily life out of gear. Over the past week, the mercury fluctuated between 17°C and 15.6°C, with Sunday morning recording the lowest temperature at 15.6°C. Though daytime temperatures remain bearable, the severity of the cold aggravates from late night to early morning, blanketing the district under thick fog. Vehicles are moving with headlights on, causing delays in transportation while Kurigram General Hospital is witnessing an increase in patients suffering from cold-related illnesses. On the other hand, day labourers and farmers are among those hit worst by the weather. Many are struggling to reach work on time while the underprivileged residents of 405 char (riverine) areas face severe suffering due to the chilly weather. Read: Cold weather grips Kurigram as temperature drops to 16 degrees Celsius Ruhul Amin, 40, a resident of Ghogadah in Kurigram Sadar, said for the past five to six days, the cold has been increasing. At night, it feels like drizzle because of the fog. It’s hard to work in this weather but they have no choice. Echoing Ruhul, another day labourer Abu Bakkar, 52, said they must leave for work before others even wake up. No matter how cold it gets, they can’t afford to skip work. Subal Chandra Sarkar, acting officer of Kurigram Weather Office, said that chilly winds are expected by the end of November or early December, which could further intensify the chill.

A prolonged heatwave has significantly increased patient admissions in hospitals throughout Dhaka, with the city's medical facilities struggling to cope with the additional burden.  Most admissions involve heatstroke, fever, cold, diarrhoea, and pneumonia, ailments that disproportionately affect children. Patients and their families face severe heat within hospital premises as well, worsening conditions for those already suffering. Many hospitals, including Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), have reported a surge in cases since Eid, with no space left even on the floors, forcing many to resort to makeshift solutions like hand fans or small table fans. Abul Malek, from Dhaka’s Nodda area, was admitted at DMCH. His son Nadim told UNB, "The heat is unbearable, and the lack of available beds has left my father to receive treatment on the floor. The situation would have been somewhat manageable with lower temperatures." Severe heatwave in Khulna: Day labourers forced to work in dangerous conditions In response to the dire situation, Brigadier General Md. Asaduzzaman, Director of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, emphasized their efforts to improve conditions. "We're swapping out all malfunctioning fans and adding new ones wherever possible. Additionally, technicians have been instructed to ensure separate lines for fans and lights to prevent electrical issues." Patient admissions have reportedly doubled at Kurmitola General Hospital, Mugda Medical College and Hospital and Dhaka Shishu Hospital as well since Eid. The majority of these patients are suffering from diarrhoea and pneumonia. The emergency and outpatient medicine departments are under the most pressure, facing the highest patient load. Professor Dr. Farid Ahmed, Head of General Pediatrics at Dhaka Shishu Hospital, highlighted the impact of the heatwave on young patients: "With the heat continuing, children are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke and other diseases, which have led to an alarming rate of hospital admissions. We are struggling to provide enough beds." Public health expert and former director of Disease Control at Directorate General of Health Services, Professor Dr. Be-Nazir Ahmed, stressed the severity of the situation, noting, "The current heatwave is unbearable. It not only raises the risk of cholera but also heightens the likelihood of other diseases. Extreme temperatures disrupt normal bodily functions, posing life-threatening risks and increasing susceptibility to various infections." Fear of fruit failure grips mango growers in Chapainawabganj as heatwave Intensifies The authorities have urged the public to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary and avoid direct exposure to extreme temperatures. With schools reopening, there is an increased concern for children's safety, necessitating heightened awareness and preventive measures against foodborne diseases and dehydration. This crisis underscores the pressing need for improved infrastructure and preparedness to handle climate-induced health emergencies, particularly for the most vulnerable populations such as children.

All secondary-level schools in the northern district of Rajshahi have been declared closed for two days, starting from today (January 21, 2024), due to severe cold. All primary-level schools are also closed today, according to an official notification signed by Dr Sharmin Ferdous Chowdhury, deputy director (acting) of secondary and higher secondary education in Rajshahi zone. Local meteorological department yesterday predicted that the district would experience less than 10 degrees Celsius temperature for the next two days (January 21 and 22). Following the forecast, education officers of the district held a meeting yesterday and took the decision to keep the primary and secondary schools closed. Read more: UGC forcibly imposed GST system on us: JnU Teachers Association Saidul Islam, primary education officer of the district, told UNB’s Rajshahi correspondent that academic activity at the primary schools will remain closed only for Sunday but the offices will remain open as usual. “Observing Sunday’s weather, the next course of action will be decided,” he said. The district witnessed a fall of four degree Celsius temperature within a span of two days. The local Met Office yesterday recorded 9.8 degrees Celsius temperature against 13.8 degree Celsius a day before. Dense fog blankets the whole district while wind has been blowing. As a result, a severe cold is being felt. Rajib Khan, observer at Rajshahi Meteorological Observatory, said the minimum temperature in Rajshahi dropped to 9.6 degrees Celsius on January 13. The second lowest temperature of the season was recorded at 9.8 degrees Celsius at 7:30 am yesterday. Read more: Educational institutions shut in Kurigram due to cold wave On Friday, the minimum temperature was recorded at 13.8 degrees Celsius, he said. The temperature also decreased yesterday after dense fog had descended, he said, forecasting that such weather may persist throughout January. On January 16, Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) issued a circular saying that the education authorities in any district can close down schools in case the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius. According to the circular, “A cold wave is sweeping different parts of the country and as a result the educational activities are being seriously hampered. The regional deputy directors in consultation with the district education officers can keep the educational institutions under secondary level closed if the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius in any district.” Read more: Mild cold wave sweeps 3 northern districts: Met Office

People in Kurigram and Lalmonirhat districts have been experiencing bitter cold as 15 degrees Celsius temperature is prevailing in the districts, causing sufferings to the poor people. In Lalmonirhat, a bitter winter breeze accompanied by dense fog has been prevailing in the district, disrupting the normal life of people, especially the poor people. A thick fog covered the sky of the five upazilas of the district from Thursday night. Vehicles were seen plying the roads with headlights on during daytime while the children and elderly people were seen shivering due to a lack of warm clothes. Import-export through Lalmonirhat’s Burimari land port off for Kali Puja The farmers preferred to stay at home as they failed to go to their respective fields due to the shivering cold. As the weather is getting colder, more people are getting admitted to the hospital with cold related diseases. Nirmalendu Roy, Lalmonirhat Civil Surgeon, said mostly children are getting admitted to the hospital with pneumonia and other cold related diseases. Lalmonirhat health division has taken steps to provide special medical services. Tk 7 crore bridge in Lalmonirhat left unused due to no approach road In Kurigram, people are experiencing the bone-chilling cold as the weather office has recorded 15.0 degrees Celsius temperature in the district. The day labourers are worried about warm clothes and work due to the cold. Lalmonirhat Sramik League activist killed in attack by BNP men, locals say Subol Chandra Sarkar, officer-in-charge of Kurigram Razarhat Observatory Centre, said the Met office recorded 15.0 degrees Celcius on Sunday but it may abate in the coming days.

Winter brings chilly foggy weather. The plummeting temperatures and fluctuating weather conditions pave the way for seasonal illnesses. Many people suffer from common colds, coughs, sore throat, and flu during the cold months.  However, nature has bestowed us with a remedy – herbal teas. These comforting brews warm the soul and offer relief from the common winter illnesses. 10 Teas for Relief from Cough and Flu this Winter Peppermint Tea Peppermint tea is renowned for its refreshing taste and soothing aroma. This tea can aid in  combating colds. Its menthol content helps clear nasal passages and alleviate sore throats, offering a revitalising experience. This herbal infusion holds various health benefits, including aiding digestion, reducing headaches, and promoting relaxation.  To brew, simply steep peppermint leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Then strain, and enjoy the comforting warmth and healing properties of this invigorating tea. Read more: 10 Best Teas for Weight Loss Ginger Tea The robust and spicy essence of ginger tea makes it an effective remedy against winter illnesses. Loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it aids in alleviating nausea, reducing congestion, and boosting the immune system. Its health benefits extend to aiding digestion, soothing upset stomachs, and providing relief from muscle soreness.  To prepare ginger tea, simmer sliced ginger in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Next, strain, and savour the potent blend of warmth and health-boosting elements in this invigorating brew. Read more: Top 10 Kidney Cleansing Teas with Recipes Chamomile Tea Chamomile tea is famed for its soothing nature. It offers a gentle yet potent remedy. Its anti-inflammatory properties not only alleviate throat soreness but also induce relaxation, aiding in improved sleep quality during illnesses. Health-wise, this tea can support digestive health, reduce anxiety, and may relieve menstrual discomfort.  For preparation, steep dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes and allow the floral essence to infuse the liquid. It creates a comforting brew that soothes both body and mind. Turmeric Tea Turmeric tea is of a radiating golden hue. This tea is rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant prowess. It effectively eases sore throats, clears congestion, and fortifies the body's immune system. Its health benefits span from supporting joint health and reducing inflammation to aiding digestion and improving skin conditions. Read more: Health benefits of floral teas: 10 blends you can try To prepare, simmer grated turmeric root or powder in hot water for 10-15 minutes. After that add a dash of black pepper and a hint of honey for enhanced absorption and a touch of sweetness.  Green Tea Green tea is celebrated for its abundant antioxidants and serves as a versatile elixir. It bolsters the immune system, diminishes inflammation, and fosters holistic well-being. Its health benefits encompass enhancing brain function, assisting weight management, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.  To prepare green tea, steep green tea leaves in hot water (not boiling) for 2-3 minutes then allow the delicate flavours to infuse. It creates a revitalising brew. Embrace the wholesome goodness and rejuvenating qualities of green tea with every sip. Read more: These are the 10 Most Expensive Teas in the World

Mild to moderate cold wave is sweeping over parts of the country and it may continue for two to three days more, said Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) on Saturday (January 21, 2023). Monwar Hossain, a meteorologist of BMD, said temperatures may rise after Tuesday (January 24, 2023). According to the regular bulletin of Met office, “Mild to moderate cold wave is sweeping over Rangpur division and the districts of Faridpur, Madaripur, Gopalganj, Rajshahi, Pabna, Naogaon, Sirajganj, Moulvibazar, Rangamati, Feni, Chuadanga, Jashore, Kushtia, Barishal and Bhola, and it may abate in some places.” Also read: Mild to moderate cold wave sweeps parts of country Moderate to thick fog may occur at places over the river basins and light to moderate fog may occur at places elsewhere over the country during midnight to morning, it said. The lowest temperature in the country was recorded at 6.5 degrees Celsius in Tetulia of Panchagarh district in 24 hours till 6am today (January 21, 2023). The highest temperature was recorded at 29.0 degrees Celsius in Teknaf during this time. Weather may remain dry with temporary partly cloudy skies over the country. Night temperature may rise by 1-2 degree C and day temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country. Read More: BGMEA urges the wealthy to help cold-stricken low-income people

Biting cold gripped Sreemangal as the lowest temperature in the country this season was recorded at 5.6 degrees Celsius in the upazila in the 24 hours to Friday morning. The lowest temperature in Sreemangal was recorded at 2.8 degrees Celsius on February 4 in 1968, Mujibur Rahman, an officer at the Srimangal weather monitoring station, said. Read more: At 6 degree C, Naogaon records lowest temperature in 24 hours Temperature between 8 to 10 degrees Celsius is considered a mild cold wave, 6 to 8 degrees Celsius a moderate cold wave and less than 6 degrees Celsius a severe cold wave. Severe cold with frosty winds and dense fog is disrupting daily life in Sreemangal. The low-income people who get by working every day are being hit hardest. Many were seen making fires along the roadsides to keep warm. Most people are staying home unless there is an emergency. Also, the number of diarrhoea and pneumonia patients – mostly children and elderly – is increasing in the hospitals of Moulvibazar, district Civil Surgeon Dr Chowdhury Jalal Uddin Murrshed said. Read more: Tetulia records season’s lowest temperature at 6.1 degrees C this morning A mild to moderate cold wave is sweeping Rangpur division; Faridpur, Madaripur, Gopalganj, Rajshahi, Pabna, Naogaon, Sirajganj, Sreemangal, Rangamati, Cumilla, Feni, Brahmanbaria, Jashore, Chuadanga, Kushtia, Barishal, and Bhola districts and it may continue, the BMD said this morning. Also, moderate to thick fog may envelop the river basins and light to moderate fog may occur elsewhere from midnight to morning. "The weather may remain dry with a temporary partly cloudy sky over the country. Night and day temperatures may remain nearly unchanged," the BMD said.