Bangladesh braces for scorching heat, storms in April

April is set to be a sweltering month in Bangladesh, with forecasts predicting not only mild but also moderate to severe heatwaves across the country.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has also warned of possible low-pressure systems, cyclones, and Kalbaishakhis, or nor’wester storms, during the month.

According to the BMD's long-term outlook, a mild heatwave currently gripping parts of the country will continue through the end of this week. Meteorologist Omar Faruk said the heatwave is expected to ease following rainfall next week.

On Tuesday, the heatwave was sweeping across the Rajshahi, Pabna, Naogaon, Nilphamari, Jashore, Dhaka, Faridpur, and Rangamati districts, and is likely to persist for a few more days.

Jashore recorded the country’s highest temperature in the past 24 hours, with the mercury soaring to 37 degrees Celsius.

“The temperature will continue to rise until Thursday,” said Omar.

“Light rain may begin in some areas on Apr 5, followed by more widespread showers and thunderstorms from Apr 6. Once the rains begin, the heatwave is expected to ease.”