A thick blanket of fog has descended upon the Ganges Delta, casting a gloomy shroud over the region's normally lush landscape. Captured by NASA's Terra satellite on January 6, 2026, this image shows low-lying clouds in a T-shaped formation, stretching across the delta like an ethereal ribbon. At its base, parallel bands of cloud stretch out into the Bay of Bengal, evoking the eerie, ghostly outlines of towering cumulus.
This phenomenon is not unusual for the region, which experiences dense fog and radiation fog during the winter months. When ground temperatures are cool and winds are light, moisture accumulates near the surface, creating a perfect storm for fog formation. In this case, the meteorological departments of Bangladesh and India have issued warnings of moderate to very dense fog, as an ongoing cold wave continues to grip the region.
However, while the image may appear serene from above, foggy conditions can be hazardous on the ground. Travel disruptions are common, with major airports like Dhaka's International Airport forced to divert flights due to poor visibility. Roads and railways are also severely impacted, causing travel delays and disruptions to daily life.
This latest development is a sobering reminder of the complexities and challenges posed by fog in this region. As scientists continue to monitor and study these phenomena, we can gain valuable insights into the intricate relationships between climate patterns, geography, and human activity. By understanding and preparing for such events, we can mitigate their impact on communities and help ensure public safety.
This phenomenon is not unusual for the region, which experiences dense fog and radiation fog during the winter months. When ground temperatures are cool and winds are light, moisture accumulates near the surface, creating a perfect storm for fog formation. In this case, the meteorological departments of Bangladesh and India have issued warnings of moderate to very dense fog, as an ongoing cold wave continues to grip the region.
However, while the image may appear serene from above, foggy conditions can be hazardous on the ground. Travel disruptions are common, with major airports like Dhaka's International Airport forced to divert flights due to poor visibility. Roads and railways are also severely impacted, causing travel delays and disruptions to daily life.
This latest development is a sobering reminder of the complexities and challenges posed by fog in this region. As scientists continue to monitor and study these phenomena, we can gain valuable insights into the intricate relationships between climate patterns, geography, and human activity. By understanding and preparing for such events, we can mitigate their impact on communities and help ensure public safety.