A mild cold wave has swept through the northern district of Panchagarh, with temperatures dropping to 9.5°C on Tuesday.
While the temperature briefly rose for a day, it has since fallen again, bringing biting cold from evening until 9am.
Despite the bright sun in the morning, residents are facing severe winter conditions throughout the night and early morning hours.
On Tuesday, the temperature was recorded at 9.5°C at 9am, with the same temperature recorded earlier at 6am. On the previous day, Monday, the temperature was recorded at 12.3°C at 9am.
During visits to various areas, it was observed that although the sun's intensity increases as the day progresses, Tuesday's cold is slightly harsher than the previous day.
Locals said that it was relatively warm on Monday, but the biting cold returned after evening, making the chill feel even more intense.
According to hospital sources, the cold has led to a rise in illnesses such as colds, fevers, coughs, diarrhoea, pneumonia, and respiratory problems.
The number of patients suffering from cold-related diseases is increasing steadily, with children and the elderly being the most affected. At the Panchagarh Modern District Hospital, 66 admitted children are mostly suffering from cold-related illnesses.
In December, approximately 450 patients were treated at the hospital for diarrhoea.
Dr Monowar Hossain, a paediatrician at Panchagarh Modern District Hospital, said: "Children are getting sicker due to the cold. Parents need to be cautious to keep their children protected from the cold."
Jitendranath, the acting officer of the district's first-class Tetulia Weather Observatory, said: "A mild cold wave is sweeping through the district again Tuesday. At 9am on Tuesday, the temperature was recorded at 9.5°C, the same as at 6am. Earlier on Monday, the temperature at 9am was recorded at 12.3°C."
"This drop in temperature has caused the mild cold wave to return to the region. The frigid wind from the Himalayas directly affects this area, causing the cold wave. The temperature may decrease further in the coming days."
Meanwhile, due to the biting cold and increased intensity of the winter wind, day labourers and low-income earners are struggling. Many are facing hardship with their families, attempting to keep warm by burning straw and other materials in various areas.
