By Staff Correspondent, Dhaka – As the dry season sets in, Bangladesh is likely to be swept by one or two severe heatwaves in April, with rainfall predicted to be below normal, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department.
In its long-range weather outlook for April, the department forecasted two to four mild to moderate heatwaves and one to two severe heatwaves throughout the month.
A mild heatwave is defined when the temperature remains between 36°C and 38.9°C. Temperatures ranging from 39°C to 40.9°C indicate a moderate heatwave, while a severe heatwave occurs when the temperature reaches between 41°C and 42.9°C.
Additionally, one to two low-pressure systems are likely to form over the Bay of Bengal, with at least one potentially intensifying into a depression or cyclone, according to a report by private news agency UNB citing the Met Office forecast.
The outlook also predicts 5–7 days of light to moderate thunderstorms with hail, and 1–3 days of severe thunderstorms with hail, in different parts of the country during the month.
Both day and night temperatures are expected to remain above normal, according to a meeting held on March 27 at the Storm Warning Centre in Dhaka, where an expert team reviewed the Long-Range Weather Forecast.
The water flow of the major rivers is expected to remain generally normal this month. However, in the northeastern region, river water levels may rise rapidly due to moderate to heavy rainfall in the region and adjoining catchment areas during the second half of April.
Already grappling with various climate-induced challenges, Bangladesh now faces heightened risks from intensifying heatwaves. In 2024, temperatures exceeding 42°C prompted authorities to shut down schools nationwide, disrupting the education of an estimated 33 million children.