Continental–Himalayan controls on shifting temperature extremes: A spatiotemporal assessment of heat and cold days in northern Bangladesh
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63697/jeshs.2026.10072Keywords:
Extreme Heat, Extreme Cold, Continental–Himalayan Controls, Climate Change, Northern BangladeshAbstract
Understanding shifts in temperature extremes is crucial for agricultural planning and long-term climate adaptation in climatically sensitive regions. This study analyzes daily temperature data from northern Bangladesh (1991–2023) to assess changes in extreme heat (>35°C) and cold (<10°C) days, a region influenced by continentality and limited maritime moderation. After data quality control, trends were evaluated using the modified Mann–Kendall test, and shifts were detected using the Pettitt method. The findings indicate two distinct phases: from 1991 to 2005, cold extremes declined sharply due to weakened Himalayan cold surges, whereas heat extremes showed neutral to slightly negative trends. After 2006, all stations exhibited strong increases in heat days (τ = 2.88–3.49), driven by intensified continental warming and reduced pre-monsoon moisture inflow. Cold-day frequencies remained low, confirming persistent winter warming. Overall, the region is transitioning toward a hotter and less thermally variable climate, requiring targeted adaptation strategies.
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