Bangladesh recorded its highest temperature of the year at 40°C in Rajshahi on Wednesday, as a widespread heatwave gripped 27 districts, severely disrupting daily life.
The scorching conditions have hit low-income and outdoor workers hardest, with rising cases of heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke, reported from different areas.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said temperatures may rise further on Thursday. A heatwave also affected the capital, where the highest temperature reached 36.5°C.
According to the BMD, a severe heatwave is sweeping over Rajshahi, while mild to moderate heatwaves are affecting the rest of Rajshahi division and Khulna division, along with several districts including Dhaka, Tangail, Faridpur, Madaripur, Dinajpur, Brahmanbaria, Lakshmipur, Rangamati and Bandarban.
Meteorologist Md. Omar Faruk said Wednesday’s 40°C reading was the highest recorded so far this year. The second-highest temperature was recorded in Ishwardi at 38°C. Temperatures reached 37.8°C in Sirajganj, 37.3°C in Kushtia, and 37°C in both Dinajpur and Chuadanga.
In other affected areas, temperatures ranged between 36°C and 37°C. A mild heatwave is typically defined when temperatures remain between 36°C and 37.9°C.
The BMD forecasts that temperatures may continue to rise over the next two days. However, from July 25, a gradual decline is expected. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in the northeastern region from the evening of July 27, which may bring some relief by lowering temperatures across the country.
Bd-pratidin English/TR
