Mercury hits 40.6C in Chuadanga: Light showers bring little relief

Staff Reporter :
Severe heatwave grips the nation, leaving it paralyzed as a brief rainfall fails to provide relief to the populace.

The incidence of hot weather-related ailments, such as diarrhea, has surged alarmingly in hospitals across urban centers, including the capital, Dhaka.

However, there was a momentary respite for Dhaka residents on Tuesday, as a brief shower accompanied by gusty winds brought some relief amid the persisting heatwave, which has endured for over a week.

Mild to moderate heatwaves are being experienced across all divisions of the country.

Gusty winds began sweeping through various parts of the capital and its surroundings after 3:30 pm, followed by rain at 3:45 pm.

Though the shower was short-lived, its cooling effect was welcomed by the populace amidst the ongoing heatwave, as noted by meteorologist Monowar Hossain.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecasted the continuation of mild to moderate heatwaves across the country for the next 72 hours, with temperatures anticipated to rise further. High humidity levels are exacerbating the discomfort.

On Tuesday, the temperature soared to a nationwide high of 40.6 degrees Celsius in Chuadanga, while Dhaka recorded a high of 38.4 degrees Celsius.

Chuadanga had previously recorded a temperature of 40.2 degrees Celsius on April 6, with Khepupara in Barishal hitting the same level last Monday.

Meteorologists classify temperatures between 36 and 38 degrees Celsius as indicative of a mild heatwave, while temperatures ranging from 38 to 40 degrees Celsius denote a moderate heatwave. A severe heatwave is declared when temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius.

According to the BMD’s bulletin on Tuesday, mild to moderate heatwaves are prevailing over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barisal, Chittagong, and Sylhet, with these conditions likely to persist.

April typically marks the hottest month in Bangladesh, with the added threat of cyclone Kalbaishakhi, commonly known as nor’westers, during this period.

The BMD anticipates the occurrence of two to four mild to moderate heatwaves and one to two severe heatwaves, with temperatures ranging from 40 to 42 degrees Celsius, throughout April.

Additionally, the bulletin warns of the potential development of a couple of low-pressure systems over the month, one of which could intensify into a depression or cyclone.

Day and night temperatures are expected to remain relatively stable across the country.

Meanwhile, a light rainfall that lashed parts of the capital on Tuesday afternoon brought a little relief to the city dwellers when different parts of the country are reeling under scorching heat.

The sky turned gloomy before the rains started at 3 pm, bringing some relief from sweltering heat.

Bangladesh Meteorological Department earlier forecast rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty or squally wind at one or two places over Dhaka, Mymensingh, Rangpur and Sylhet divisions with hails at isolated places.