Heavy rain may trigger floods in northern, southeastern regions, says Met Office

Monsoon lows and isolated heatwaves are expected this month as rainfall raises river levels

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) have warned of possible short-term floods in the northeastern and southeastern regions this August, triggered by heavy seasonal rain, while also forecasting isolated mild heatwaves in parts of the country.

The long-range forecast issued by the Met Office on Sunday said monsoon rains would raise water levels in the country's major rivers, increasing flood risks in parts of the north, northeast, and southeast.

One to two monsoon lows are likely to form in the Bay of Bengal during the month, and one may develop into a depression, said the department’s Director Md Mominul Islam.

The forecast also anticipates five to six days of thunderstorm activity with lightning.

Temperatures, both day and night, are expected to remain slightly above normal throughout the month.

Meanwhile, the next 72 hours could bring heavy to very heavy rainfall (44–88mm or more per 24 hours) to several parts of the country, particularly in Rajshahi, Rangpur, Dhaka, Mymensingh, and Sylhet, according to Assistant Meteorologist Kazi Zebunnesa.