Heavy Rain Warning Issued as Storm Risk Hits 20 Districts

Bangladesh’s Meteorological Department has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall across several parts of the country under the influence of an active monsoon system. The weather authority has also forecast temporary storms, gusty winds and thunderstorms in 20 districts, including the capital Dhaka, urging caution among residents and river transport operators.

The forecast was issued in two separate bulletins released on Thursday (9 July) morning. According to a bulletin signed by meteorologist A.K.M. Nazmul, heavy rainfall is likely in several areas during the next 48 hours from 6:00 am on Thursday.

The affected regions include Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions. Some areas may experience heavy rainfall ranging between 44 and 88 millimetres, while isolated locations could receive very heavy rainfall exceeding 88 millimetres.

The weather office has cautioned that persistent rainfall may lead to temporary waterlogging in parts of Dhaka and Chattogram cities. Low-lying urban areas, where drainage systems often face pressure during periods of intense rain, could experience short-term disruption. In addition, there is a risk of landslides in the hilly areas of the Chattogram division due to excessive rainfall.

A separate advisory issued for the country’s inland river ports stated that temporary squally winds accompanied by rain and thunderstorms may affect several areas from 5:00 am to 1:00 pm on Thursday. Winds from the south or south-eastern direction may reach speeds of 45 to 60 kilometres per hour during the period.

The districts and regions expected to experience stormy weather include Rangpur, Dinajpur, Rajshahi, Pabna, Bogura, Tangail, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Faridpur, Madaripur, Kushtia, Jashore, Khulna, Barishal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Cumilla, Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar and Sylhet.

Authorities have instructed river ports in these areas to display local cautionary signal number 1, which has been reissued due to the possibility of rough weather conditions. Operators of small and inland vessels have been advised to remain alert and take necessary precautions before starting journeys.

The latest warning comes during the peak monsoon season in Bangladesh, when weather patterns are often influenced by moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal. Heavy rainfall during this period can affect daily life, disrupt road and river transport, and increase the risk of flooding in vulnerable areas.

Residents in areas likely to be affected have been advised to remain cautious, particularly during thunderstorms. People living in hilly regions have also been encouraged to stay alert to possible landslides, while travellers are advised to monitor weather updates before making plans.