Tentulia shivers as mercury drops to 9.4°C

Tentulia, the farthest north town of the country, recorded the lowest temperature this season on Satrday at 9.4°C, as a mild cold wave persisted in the area. 

However, weather conditions in other parts of the northern region improved significantly, offering relief to residents.

Temperature trends

According to the Met Office, while minimum temperatures mostly remained unchanged, maximum temperatures increased slightly over the last 24 hours, bringing much-needed respite.

Today’s minimum temperatures: 

Rangpur: 12.5°C

Dinajpur: 12°C

Saidpur: 11.8°C

Dimla (Nilphamari): 12°C

Rajarhat (Kurigram): 13°C

The maximum temperatures ranged between 24°C and 26.6°C, with slight increases in some areas.

Weather improvement

For the second consecutive day, sunny skies with no fog or clouds provided significant relief. Earlier this week, overcast skies and cold winds had forced many to stay indoors, disrupting daily life. Normal activities, including farming and vehicular movement, have resumed across most areas, except in parts of Panchagarh, where the cold wave lingers.

Health and relief efforts

Healthcare facilities across the region continue to treat patients suffering from cold-related ailments such as coughs, fevers, and asthma.

Health services: Hospitals and clinics remain stocked with adequate medicines, and special care is being provided for babies and children.

Relief distribution: District administrations and charitable organizations have intensified the distribution of warm clothes. 

Rangpur: 30,000 blankets have been distributed.

Kurigram: 32,000 blankets have been distributed.

Support for farmers

Farmers have been advised by agriculture officials to protect winter crops and Boro rice seedlings from cold injuries. Suggestions include:

Irrigation: Flooding seedbeds at night and draining water in the morning.

Protection: Using polythene sheets to shield seedlings if temperatures drop further.

Agriculturist Md Obaidur Rahman Mondal, Additional Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) for Rangpur, assured that agricultural officers are assisting farmers to ensure minimal damage to crops.

As the region braces for continued cold, ongoing relief and precautionary measures are crucial to minimise disruptions and protect vulnerable populations.