Heavy Rain Threat Persists Across Six Divisions

Persistent monsoon rainfall continued to affect large parts of Bangladesh on Monday, with intermittent showers and prolonged downpours reported from the capital, Dhaka, and many other regions. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has extended its heavy rainfall warning for another 24 hours, cautioning that six divisions could experience heavy to very heavy rain as an active monsoon system remains firmly established over the country.

According to the weather forecast issued at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Rajshahi, Rangpur, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions during the next 24 hours. Meteorologists warned that prolonged rainfall could cause water to accumulate in low-lying areas, disrupting road transport and increasing the risk of urban flooding, particularly in the capital.

The BMD said the current spell is being driven by an active southwest monsoon, which has intensified rainfall across much of the country. Meteorologist Muhammad Abul Kalam Mallick explained that the extension of the heavy rainfall warning reflects the continued strength of the seasonal weather system. He noted that rainfall has remained significantly above normal in several regions under the influence of the active monsoon.

Rainfall records illustrate the intensity of the current weather pattern. Between 6:00 a.m. on Sunday and 9:00 a.m. on Monday—a period of 27 hours—Dhaka alone received 110 millimetres of rainfall. Although meteorologists expect rainfall intensity to ease slightly from Tuesday, they believe the improvement may be temporary. Forecast models indicate that the monsoon could strengthen again from Thursday, potentially bringing another round of widespread heavy rain.

On Sunday, Dhaka recorded the country’s highest daily rainfall, measuring 175 millimetres. Rain was reported in almost every part of Bangladesh, reflecting the widespread reach of the active monsoon circulation.

Fresh rainfall was also recorded across several districts on Monday morning. Between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., Cumilla received the highest rainfall at 107 millimetres. During the same period, Dhaka recorded 13 millimetres, while Bogura received 35 millimetres, Sylhet 32 millimetres, Mymensingh 23 millimetres, Naogaon 18 millimetres and Rangpur 10 millimetres.

Meteorologist Md Abdul Hamid said northern parts of the country were likely to experience comparatively heavier rainfall throughout Monday. As a result, riverside communities, low-lying land and areas already vulnerable to waterlogging could face temporary disruption, particularly if rain continues for extended periods.

Bangladesh’s principal monsoon season generally extends from June to September, when moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal bring widespread rainfall across the country. While moderate to heavy rain is common during this period, an exceptionally active monsoon can produce very heavy rainfall within a short time, increasing the likelihood of flash flooding, urban waterlogging and traffic disruption. In densely populated cities such as Dhaka, prolonged rain frequently overwhelms drainage systems, leaving roads submerged and slowing daily life.

The Meteorological Department has advised residents in areas covered by the heavy rainfall forecast to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from waterlogged roads where possible, and follow instructions issued by local authorities. Officials said updated forecasts would be released as weather conditions evolve and urged the public to remain alert for further advisories.

Recorded Rainfall During the Current Weather Spell