Biting cold in Jashore, temperature hits 8°C

Jashore has recorded the lowest temperature in the country for the second consecutive day. The minimum temperature in the district was 8°C on Friday (January 2).

The district had also recorded the nation’s lowest temperature of 7.8°C on Thursday. Overall, this season, Jashore has seen the lowest temperature on four separate days.

The persistent cold wave has made daily life difficult in both urban and rural areas, particularly for the homeless and marginalised communities, who are enduring harsh conditions.

According to the Jashore Air Force Weather Office, the minimum temperature on Friday morning was 8°C, following Thursday’s 7.8°C. Earlier, temperatures of 9°C on December 26 and 8.8°C on December 27 were recorded.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department classifies cold waves based on temperature ranges: mild (8.1°C–10°C), moderate (6.1°C–8°C), severe (4.1°C–6°C), and very severe (below 4°C). At present, 17 districts are experiencing cold waves. With temperatures dropping to 8°C, Jashore is under a moderate cold wave. In January 2013, the district had recorded a minimum temperature of 4.2°C.

The ongoing cold wave has disrupted daily life. Residents and animals are struggling in the biting cold. Even with sunshine, cold winds intensify the chill, while high humidity makes it feel even colder.

Friday morning was foggy, but the fog cleared as the day progressed, revealing sunlight. Despite the sunshine, the cold weather persisted, affecting normal activities. People were seen wrapped in thick jackets and mufflers, with many avoiding leaving their homes. Daily wage earners are especially affected.

Rahim Ali, a rickshaw puller from Chanchra, said, “It is very difficult to get passengers in the morning and at night due to the cold. People leave home for work only later in the day. As a result, our daily income has decreased.”