File photo.

DHAKA, Jan 6, 2026 (BSS) - The lowest temperature of the current winter season was recorded today as the mercury dropped to 7 degrees Celsius in Rajshahi while a mild to moderate cold wave is sweeping over 10 districts of the country.

According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), the season's lowest temperature was earlier recorded at 7.5 degrees Celsius in Gopalganj on December 31. 

That record was broken today as the temperature further fell to 7 degrees Celsius in Rajshahi.

The cold wave is currently sweeping over Rajshahi, Pabna, Bogura, Dinajpur, Nilphamari, Panchagarh, Rangamati, Jashore, Kushtia and Chuadanga.

In contrast, the southern coastal town of Teknaf recorded the highest temperature of the country at 26.6 degrees Celsius, highlighting a sharp temperature difference between the north and the south.

Despite the fall in the country's lowest temperature, the temperature in the capital Dhaka showed a slight rise today.

Officials of the BMD said temperatures may fluctuate over the next three to four days, while a rising trend may begin around January 10 or 11.

According to meteorological definitions, a mild cold wave occurs when the minimum temperature remains between 8.1 and 10 degrees Celsius, while temperatures between 6.1 and 8 degrees Celsius indicate a moderate cold wave.

A severe cold wave is considered when temperatures fall between 4.1 and 6 degrees Celsius, and temperatures below 4 degrees Celsius are termed very severe cold wave conditions.

In its long-range forecast issued at the beginning of the month, the BMD said at least five cold waves may sweep over the country in January, including one severe cold wave.

The BMD forecast, effective from 9 am this morning, said the weather may remain dry with a temporarily partly cloudy sky over the country.

Moderate to thick fog may occur during midnight to morning hours and may continue till noon at places, which could temporarily disrupt air navigation, inland river transport and road communication.

Night and day temperatures may rise slightly over the country, but cold feelings may persist due to foggy conditions.

In Dhaka, today's sunset will be at 5:26 pm while tomorrow's sunrise is expected at 6:43 am.