Meteorologists have reported unbearable temperatures in the southwestern districts of Bangladesh due to geographical factors. In Rajshahi, recognized as the hottest district of the country, the mercury has soared to a maximum of 42.4 degrees Celsius, although Chuadanga district has recorded the highest temperatures overall.
Although temperatures in Barisal are slightly lower, the sensation of heat is significantly higher. In contrast, most districts in the Rangpur, Mymensingh, and Sylhet divisions are outside the heatwave zone.
According to the Weather Department, a moderate to severe heatwave is currently passing over Rajshahi. Despite Rajshahi experiencing a peak temperature of 42.4 degrees Celsius, Chuadanga has recorded the highest temperatures for nearly the entire month of April. Typically, the southwestern districts of Bangladesh, including Chuadanga, experience unbearable temperatures at this time of year due to their geographical characteristics.
Meteorologists explain that during March, April, and May, the sun’s rays fall vertically over most parts of Bangladesh, with only a few areas receiving slanted sunlight. Particularly in April, the sun beams directly over Bangladesh when the skies are clear. Essentially, the sun is closest to Bangladesh during this month, resulting in higher temperatures. Districts such as Jessore, Kushtia, Satkhira, Bagerhat, Kushtia, and the northern regions like Rajshahi, Dinajpur, and Naogaon are also affected by the ‘loo’ winds, contributing to the high temperatures.
Dr. Md. Zillur Rahman, Chairman of the Department of Disaster Science and Climate Resilience at the University of Dhaka, views the ongoing heatwave as a natural weather phenomenon that occurs annually, though it is more intense this year. He mentions that the impact of climate change is evident when comparing current temperatures with those from 1850 to 1900, noting an average global temperature increase of one degree Celsius, which has led to heatwaves, floods, and snowfalls in various parts of the world, including Bangladesh.
Despite the higher temperatures in Rajshahi, Jessore and Chuadanga, the heat sensation is much stronger in the Barisal region. The maximum temperatures in the districts of the Barisal division range from 36.4 to 37.5 degrees Celsius, which is significantly lower than in other areas. However, due to continuous evaporation facilitated by numerous rivers, lakes and ponds and the proximity to the Bay of Bengal, which increases the amount of moisture in the air, the heat sensation is intensely felt in Barisal.
Dr. Muhammad Abul Kalam Azad Malik, a meteorologist, notes that coastal areas generally do not experience temperatures above 36 to 38 degrees Celsius. However, the heat feels more oppressive due to high humidity levels caused by the water bodies and the Bay of Bengal’s proximity. In contrast, the regions of Rangpur, Mymensingh, and Sylhet experience bearable temperatures due to their geographical locations, which include extensive water bodies and high mountains.
Dr. Malik adds that the presence of water bodies and forested areas in these regions helps maintain lower temperatures. Additionally, the moist air from the Bay of Bengal is obstructed by the mountains, causing it to rise and condense into clouds, which then precipitate on the mountain fronts, further reducing temperatures.
The Weather Department has forecasted a drop in temperatures in Barisal, Chittagong, and some areas of Dhaka from today. This week might see thunderstorms and nor’westers across various regions, potentially reducing temperatures by two to six degrees.
