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.

Biting cold gripped Chuadanga as the lowest temperature in the country on Friday (January 06, 2023) was recorded at 9.0 degrees Celsius in the district. 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 from the north and dense fog is disrupting daily life in Chuadanga. The low-income people who get by working every day are being hit hardest. Also Read: Mild cold wave sweeping parts of Bangladesh Many were seen making fires along the roadsides to keep warm. Most people are staying home unless there is an emergency. "A biting cold spell has continued to sweep across the district. Winter is being felt severely due to the foggy environment and frosty air. Such conditions may last for a few more days. Also, the mercury may drop even further," said Rakibul Hasan, officer-in-charge of the Chuadanga met office. Also, the number of diarrhoea and pneumonia patients – mostly children and elderly – is increasing in the hospitals of Chuadanga. Read More: Bone-chilling cold disrupts normal life in Panchagarh A mild cold wave is sweeping through four other districts – Naogaon, Dinajpur, Panchagarh and Jashore – and it may continue, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said today. The highest temperature on Friday was recorded at 26.5 degrees Celsius in Cox's Bazar and Sitakunda. "The weather may remain dry with a temporary partly cloudy sky over the country in the next 24 hours. Besides, moderate to thick fog may occur over the country from midnight till morning and it may continue till noon at places," the BMD said. Read More: Khulna struggles to cope with biting cold wave.

Moderate to severe cold conditions are likely to continue in north, north-western and central parts of the country due to lower difference between day and night temperatures, Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has said. According to the Met office regular bulletin, “Moderate to thick fog may occur over the country during midnight till morning and it may continue till noon at places.” The Met office made the forecast at 9 am today for the next 24 hours. Weather may remain dry with partly cloudy sky over the country while night and day temperatures may remain nearly unchanged over the country, it said. The lowest temperature in the country was recorded in Srimangal, at 9 degree Celsius. Meanwhile, ridge of Sub-continental high extends up to West Bengal and adjoining area of Bangladesh. Seasonal low lies over South Bay, extending its trough to North Bay.  

A mild cold wave is sweeping Nilphamari, Panchagarh districts and Srimongal and it may abate in 24 hours commencing 9 am on Saturday. Weather may remain dry with temporary partly cloudy sky over the country, said a regular bulletin of Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD). Moderate to thick fog may occur at places over the country from midnight till morning, it said. Also read: Mild cold wave sweeps parts of country Night and day temperatures may remain nearly unchanged over the country. Meanwhile, ridge of Sub-continental high extends up to Bihar and adjoining area. Seasonal low lies over South Bay.  

A mild cold wave is sweeping through Naogaon, Panchagarh, Jashore and Chuadanga, said the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) on Friday. The lowest temperature in the country was recorded at 8.7 degrees Celsius in Tetulia in the 24 hours to 6am today. The highest temperature was recorded at 29.0 degrees Celsius in Cox's Bazar. Read more: Shivering cold disrupts normal life in Kurigram When the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius or less and continues for some period, it is considered a cold wave, according to the BMD. Different parts of Bangladesh experience different intensities of cold waves. 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. Also, the BMD said moderate to thick fog may occur at places over the country from midnight till morning. Read more: Chuadanga records lowest temperature in Bangladesh for 3rd consecutive day "Weather may remain dry with temporary partly cloudy skies over the country. Night and day temperatures may remain nearly unchanged," it added.