The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has issued a formal weather warning for eight regions across the country, forecasting gusty winds and thunderstorms. According to a bulletin signed by meteorologist Dr Md. Omar Faruque on Thursday (7 May), inland river ports have been advised to take precautionary measures as inclement weather is expected to persist until 1:00 am.
Regional Forecast and Wind Velocities
The BMD reports that temporary squalls or thunderstorms, originating from the west or north-west, are likely to affect specific administrative divisions. The wind speeds in these areas are projected to fluctuate between 45 and 60 kilometres per hour (kph). Consequently, river ports within these jurisdictions have been instructed to hoist Inland Riverine Cautionary Signal No. 1.
The following table outlines the regions under immediate alert and the nature of the predicted weather conditions:
| Region | Expected Wind Speed (kph) | Direction | Forecasted Conditions |
| Mymensingh | 45 – 60 | West/North-West | Gusty winds & Thunderstorms |
| Khulna | 45 – 60 | West/North-West | Gusty winds & Thunderstorms |
| Barishal | 45 – 60 | West/North-West | Gusty winds & Thunderstorms |
| Patuakhali | 45 – 60 | West/North-West | Gusty winds & Thunderstorms |
| Noakhali | 45 – 60 | West/North-West | Gusty winds & Thunderstorms |
| Chattogram | 45 – 60 | West/North-West | Gusty winds & Thunderstorms |
| Cox’s Bazar | 45 – 60 | West/North-West | Gusty winds & Thunderstorms |
| Sylhet | 45 – 60 | West/North-West | Gusty winds & Thunderstorms |
Synoptic Weather and Five-Day Outlook
Beyond the immediate 24-hour alert, the Meteorological Department provided an extended 120-hour (five-day) outlook starting from 9:00 am today. The synoptic analysis indicates that a trough of low pressure is currently extending from West Bengal to the North Bay of Bengal.
Under the influence of this meteorological system, the distribution of rainfall over the next 24 hours is expected as follows:
Widespread Activity: Rain or thunderstorms accompanied by temporary gusty winds and lightning are expected in several parts of the Rajshahi and Khulna divisions.
Isolated Activity: One or two locations within the Rangpur, Dhaka, Chattogram, Mymensingh, Barishal, and Sylhet divisions may experience similar weather patterns.
Temperature Trends
In addition to the precipitation forecast, the BMD has noted a shift in thermal patterns. Both day and night temperatures across the nation are expected to rise slightly. This warming trend is predicted to persist over the coming days. The combination of rising temperatures and high humidity following rain is a characteristic feature of the pre-monsoon season in the region.
Authorities have advised all vessels operating in the designated riverine areas to remain vigilant and adhere to the cautionary signals to ensure safety during the forecasted period of instability.