Met forecasts colder days after Dec 25
The mercury plunged to 7.4 degree Celsius in the north-eastern tea valley of Srimangal yesterday, making it the coldest day in the country this winter.
Mild to moderate cold waves continued to sweep the countrys north, south and south west, with meteorologists warning that worse is in store ahead of the New Year.
There could be moderate to severe cold waves after December 25, when the temperature may range between 6 and 8 degree Celsius, mainly in the northern districts. It has already dropped to 8 degree Celsius in south-western Chudanga, 8.5 degree Celsius in Rajshahi city and Badalgachi, the rice bowl region in Naogaon, Met office sources said.
Dhaka city, which recorded a minimum temperature of 13.2 degree Celsius yesterday, wore a veil of mist in the morning.
Chittagong city in the south east recorded a minimum temperature of 13.3 degree Celsius. In Khulna, the mercury plummeted to 11.3 degree Celsius, followed by 10 degree Celsius in Satkhira and 10.2 degree Celsius in Jessore.
Met sources said the cold was due to the sub-continental ridge of high pressure extending itself to neighbouring West Bengal and its adjoining areas such as south-western and north-western Bangladesh,
As the cold expanded its grip over most of the country, roadside sellers of woollens and blankets witnessed a huge rush of buyers.
However, Dhaka South City Corporations sudden drive against unauthorised markets on the pavements made it a bad day for hawkers in Gulistan area as well as for the clientele, which mostly comprises the citys poor.
