Bangladesh continues to endure an intense spell of heatwave conditions, with the Meteorological Department warning of only limited and temporary relief as isolated thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds and rainfall are expected in parts of the country later tonight.
The forecast comes as temperatures surged to as high as 37°C in several regions on the final day of Chaitra, intensifying public discomfort and placing strain on daily life. The prevailing hot spell has affected large areas, particularly across the central, northern and western districts.
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Heatwave Conditions Across Multiple Regions
On Monday (13 April), the Bangladesh Meteorological Department confirmed that a mild to moderate heatwave is currently sweeping across several divisions, including Dhaka, Tangail, Rajshahi, Pabna, Sirajganj, and parts of Khulna division. Officials warned that the heatwave may persist in many areas despite the possibility of isolated rainfall.
Assistant Meteorologist Afroz Sultana stated that while most parts of the country will remain dry and hot, some locations in Dhaka division—such as Gopalganj and Nikli in Kishoreganj—could experience scattered showers.
In addition, forecasters cautioned that two districts may face thunderstorms later in the night, with wind speeds potentially reaching up to 60 kilometres per hour, raising the risk of brief but disruptive weather conditions.
Heatwave Classification Used by Meteorologists
| Temperature Range (°C) | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 35°C | Normal |
| 36°C – 37.9°C | Mild heatwave |
| 38°C – 39.9°C | Moderate heatwave |
| 40°C – 41.9°C | Severe heatwave |
| 42°C and above | Extreme heatwave |
Weather Systems Influencing Conditions
Meteorologists attribute the current unstable weather pattern to a trough of low pressure extending over West Bengal and adjoining regions. At the same time, the seasonal low-pressure system remains active over the southern Bay of Bengal.
These combined systems are contributing to dry, hot air over much of Bangladesh, while also creating conditions for isolated convective rainfall and thunderstorms in selected regions.
For Tuesday, officials expect largely dry weather across most of the country. However, parts of Chattogram, Barishal and Sylhet divisions may experience temporary rain or thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds. Elsewhere, skies are likely to remain partly cloudy with continued dry conditions.
Authorities also indicated that both daytime and night-time temperatures may rise slightly in the coming days, suggesting that the ongoing heatwave could persist before any significant nationwide rainfall arrives.
Current Weather Observations
In Dhaka, south to south-westerly winds were recorded at 10–15 km/h, while morning humidity stood at 59%, further intensifying the perceived heat.
By 9:00am on Monday, the capital recorded a maximum temperature of 36.2°C. Elsewhere in the country, Rajshahi experienced the highest temperature at 37.5°C, while the lowest temperature of 19°C was recorded in Rajarhat, Rangpur.
Rainfall activity remained limited overall, although Sylhet recorded the highest precipitation of the day at 6 millimetres.
Outlook
While the possibility of thunderstorms later in the night may bring short-lived relief to select districts, meteorologists caution that the broader heatwave pattern is unlikely to ease immediately. Residents have been advised to take precautions against heat-related illness, particularly during peak afternoon hours, as Bangladesh continues to await more sustained monsoon-linked rainfall activity in the coming weeks.