The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has reported that a mild heatwave is currently sweeping over 12 districts, including Dhaka. On Sunday, the capital experienced a rise of more than one degree Celsius in maximum temperature within just a day.
According to the BMD, such heatwaves in mid-March are somewhat unusual. The increase in heatwave intensity is attributed to reduced wind flow and prolonged sunlight exposure.
Additionally, the humidity level in the air is quite high, making the heat feel even more intense despite being classified as a mild heatwave. This pattern is expected to persist for another couple of days.
A region is considered to be experiencing a mild heatwave when the maximum temperature ranges between 36°C and 37.9°C. If the temperature is between 38°C and 39.9°C, it is classified as a moderate heatwave.
A severe heatwave occurs when temperatures range from 40°C to 41.9°C, while an extreme heatwave is recorded when the temperature exceeds 42°C.
On Sunday, the highest temperature in Dhaka was recorded at 36°C, up from 34.9°C on Saturday. Meanwhile, the country’s highest temperature was recorded in Baghabari, Sirajganj, at 37.7°C.
Other districts experiencing temperatures exceeding 36°C, indicating a mild heatwave, include Faridpur, Manikganj, Rajshahi, Ishwardi (Pabna), Khulna, Bagerhat, Jashore, Patuakhali, Rangamati, and Chuadanga.
Senior meteorologist Muhammad Abul Kalam Mallik stated that the duration of sunlight exposure is increasing, while wind speed has decreased significantly.
Moreover, high humidity levels in the air are making the heat feel more intense. He expects this condition to persist for another one to two days.
He also noted that on Sunday morning, the humidity level in Dhaka was 82%, which is why, despite the temperature being 36°C, it felt more like 38°C.
At the beginning of each month, the BMD issues a long-term weather forecast. According to this month’s forecast, March is expected to be warmer than usual, with multiple phases of mild to moderate heatwaves.
Additionally, the seasonal Nor’wester (Kalbaishakhi storms) may also occur this month. Some areas in Sylhet have already experienced rain and gusty winds last Thursday night.
