Heatwave loses grip, rain may bring relief in two days

Forecast says rain likely across the country after Sunday

The mercury rose as the day progressed. On Sunday, Apr 6, 2025, many citizens splash water on their faces from a tap in front of Bangabhaban Colony in Tikatuli, trying to cool off amid the blistering heatwave. Photo: Abdullah al Momin

After days of searing heat and sun-scorched skies, Bangladesh is finally catching a break.

The relentless heatwave that has gripped much of the country is beginning to ease, with the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) forecasting widespread rainfall after Sunday—offering hope for cooler days ahead.

In its regular weather bulletin on Friday, the BMD reported that 11 districts were still under the influence of a heatwave, down from 24 districts on Thursday.

“The heatwave will persist until Sunday. After that, the temperature will start to fall, and rain will be more or less widespread across the country,” said meteorologist Khandaker Hafizur Rahman, speaking to bdnews24.com.

The Met Office said a mild to moderate heatwave is currently sweeping over Rajshahi Division, as well as Dinajpur, Jashore and Chuadanga districts, and it is likely to continue.

Rajshahi recorded the highest temperature in the country on Friday at 39°C while Dhaka saw a high of 34.6°C.

Temperatures ranging from 36°C to 38°C are considered mild heatwaves. Readings between 38°C and 40°C fall under moderate heatwave conditions while 40°C to 42°C is categorised as severe.

Anything above 42°C is classified as an extreme heatwave.

The forecast for the 24 hours from 6pm Friday says temporary gusts of wind, lightning and isolated rain or thundershowers may occur in parts of Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions.

Elsewhere, skies may remain partly cloudy with mainly dry weather prevailing.

Temperatures during the day and night across the country are expected to remain nearly unchanged over the next 24 hours.