Season’s lowest temperature recorded in Srimangal at 9.6°C

Srimangal, situated in the Moulvibazar district, recorded the season’s lowest temperature early Tuesday morning, with the mercury plunging to 9.6 degrees Celsius. The sharp drop confirms the onset of a mild cold wave gripping the northeastern region of the country, significantly disrupting daily life.

The reading was recorded by the local meteorological observatory, marking Srimangal, often dubbed the ‘tea capital,’ as one of the coldest spots in Bangladesh for the current winter season. The drop below 10°C has been accompanied by sustained cold air and dense fog, severely reducing visibility, especially during the early morning hours and late evening.

The prevailing weather conditions are exerting a toll on the local population, particularly vulnerable groups. Reports indicate a rise in suffering among children and the elderly, who are more susceptible to cold-related respiratory illnesses. Local health facilities have been alerted to handle potential increases in patients experiencing issues stemming from the biting cold.

Outdoor workers are facing significant hardship as the mild cold wave intensifies. Labourers in the region’s numerous tea gardens, construction workers, and those engaged in transport professions, such as rickshaw pullers, are struggling to maintain productivity in the frigid conditions, often working without sufficient warm clothing. The combination of intense cold and thick fog is making sustained manual labour challenging.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department forecasts that these mild cold wave conditions are likely to persist across the region for at least the next few days. Temperatures are expected to hover near the current level before a gradual rise is anticipated towards the weekend. Local authorities are urging residents to take extra precautions, remain indoors when possible, and ensure the protection of livestock and vulnerable community members against the continuing chill.