Mild heatwave lingers across Bangladesh, low pressure may form over Bay

Forecasters track a possible low-pressure system in the Bay that could ease the heat

A mild heatwave continues to sweep across vast stretches of six divisions in Bangladesh, with temperatures stubbornly lingering at elevated levels.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) reported the day’s highest temperature at 38°C in Rajarhat, Kurigram, while Dhaka registered a peak of 36°C.

Meteorologists classify temperatures between 36°C and 38°C as a mild heatwave, 38°C to 40°C as moderate, 40°C to 42°C as severe, and anything beyond 42°C as extreme.

Currently, the heatwave conditions blanket Dhaka, Tangail, Faridpur, Narsingdi, Narayanganj, and extensive portions of Rajshahi, Rangpur, Khulna, Mymensingh, and Sylhet divisions.

Kh Hafizur Rahman, a senior meteorologist, forecasts the emergence of a low-pressure system over the northern Bay of Bengal within 24 hours.

The development promises to usher in much-needed showers, potentially tempering the heatwave’s relentless grip.

From 6pm on Wednesday, light to moderate rain with occasional gusty winds is expected over most parts of Dhaka, Barishal, Chattogram, and Sylhet divisions, along with several areas of Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, and Khulna divisions, lasting for the next 24 hours.

Some places in Dhaka, Barishal, Chattogram, and Sylhet divisions may experience moderate to heavy rainfall at times.