As Bangladesh prepares to welcome Eid al-Fitr, meteorologists have issued warnings of potential thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and Kalbaishakhi (nor’wester) storms that may disrupt festivities and outdoor congregational prayers across the country. The Bangladesh Weather Observation Team (BDWOT) has emphasised that this year’s pre- and post-Eid period could see unusually active storm conditions.
Speaking on Thursday, 19 March 2026, BDWOT officials highlighted that from the day before Eid through the three days following, multiple regions are likely to experience intermittent storms and rain. “Eid day itself poses the greatest risk of severe weather, particularly during early morning prayers conducted in open-air Eidgahs,” the team noted.
A strong Kalbaishakhi system is expected to enter from the north-west on the eve of Eid, posing elevated risks for Mymensingh, Sylhet, Dhaka, Khulna, and Barishal divisions. Gusty winds and heavy downpours may interrupt prayer gatherings, while the storm is likely to move progressively from Rangpur and Rajshahi in the early morning, reaching Khulna, Barishal, Dhaka, Mymensingh, and Sylhet by mid-morning, and Chattogram by afternoon. Experts predict a second wave of storms later in the day, prolonging adverse weather conditions across much of the country.
BDWOT further indicated that Friday, 20 March, the day before Eid, could start with partly cloudy skies, but the situation is expected to deteriorate after midday. Northern and central divisions are particularly vulnerable to Kalbaishakhi-related rain and thunderstorms, while southern districts may also experience heavy showers. By Saturday, 21 March, conditions are forecast to gradually improve, with coastal areas seeing morning showers but the rest of the country largely dry and calm.
Eid 2026 Weather Forecast: Key Highlights
| Date | Region / Division | Expected Weather | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Mar 2026 (Eve) | Rangpur, Rajshahi | Kalbaishakhi storm, rain | Early morning disruption; gusty winds |
| 20 Mar 2026 (Morning) | Khulna, Barishal, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Sylhet | Thunderstorms, rain | Outdoor Eid prayers may be affected |
| 20 Mar 2026 (Afternoon) | Chattogram | Thunderstorms | Possible interruption of daytime activities |
| 20 Mar 2026 (Late day) | Nationwide | Second wave of storms | Extended period of inclement weather |
| 21 Mar 2026 | Coastal divisions (Chattogram, Barishal, Khulna) | Morning rain | Daytime improvement expected elsewhere |
BDWOT has urged the public, particularly those attending open-air Eidgahs, to exercise caution, stay away from exposed areas during storms, and monitor real-time weather updates. Authorities have advised organisers to consider temporary shelters or rescheduling activities if needed.
While the impending storms may temper the festive mood, officials remain confident that with adequate vigilance and preparation, most Eid celebrations can proceed safely. This forecast underscores the need for a careful balance between traditional celebrations and weather-related precautions during Bangladesh’s seasonal Kalbaishakhi period.