April may be cruel with forecast of heatwaves, cyclone

Staff Reporter :
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has released its long-term forecast for April, predicting scorching temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius alongside the possibility of a cyclone forming in the Bay of Bengal.

The forecast committee anticipates below-average rainfall throughout April. The first week might see scattered rain and thunderstorms with gusty winds and hail.

Of concern is the potential for cyclone development, with the BMD predicting the formation of one or two low-pressure systems in the Bay of Bengal, with one possibly intensifying into a cyclone.

April will also see heatwaves gripping the country. The forecast warns of two to four mild (36-37.9°C), moderate (38-39.9°C), and one to two severe (40-41.9°C) to extreme (over 42°C) heatwaves sweeping across different regions.

Daytime temperatures are expected to soar, while nights will likely see minimal change.

The report also highlights the possibility of flash floods in the northeastern region due to moderate to heavy rainfall there and in adjoining upstream areas.

River water levels in these regions might rise rapidly, causing short-term flooding. The BMD assures normal flow in major rivers elsewhere in the country.

March, on the other hand, witnessed normal rainfall across Bangladesh. The maximum and minimum temperatures were both 3 degrees Celsius below average, resulting in an overall cooler month.