A blistering heatwave has gripped Chuadanga ahead of the month of Baishakh, with the mercury soaring to 39.7 degrees Celsius at 3pm on Friday.
This marks the highest temperature recorded in the district this season, following a steady climb from 36.3°C on Wednesday and 38.5°C on Thursday.
The Chuadanga District Meteorological Office reported that the situation worsened due to high humidity, resulting in stifling conditions that have brought public life to a near standstill. Residents described the intense sunlight as “fire scorching the sky,” with reports of road pitch melting under the extreme heat.
The heatwave has severely impacted low-income individuals and manual labourers. Agricultural and livestock sectors are also under pressure, as farmers struggle to protect field crops from the scorching sun.
Streets across the district began to empty after 11am, with those forced to venture out relying on umbrellas, hats, and handkerchiefs for protection. Inside homes, the situation remains dire as ceiling fans circulate hot air, causing significant distress to children and the elderly.
The Chuadanga Meteorological Office warned that the district is currently experiencing a moderate to severe heatwave. Temperatures have risen unnaturally since the start of April and predicted that the harsh, arid conditions are likely to persist for several days.
In response to the extreme weather, doctors at Chuadanga Sadar Hospital have highlighted a heightened risk of heatstroke and dehydration.
They have urged the public to consume plenty of water, saline, and liquid foods. Health officials have issued a specific request for children and the elderly to avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 5pm.
According to World Bank Climate Knowledge Portal standards cited in the reports, Bangladesh’s average temperature ranges between 15°C and 34°C.
A temperature of 36°C is classified as a mild heatwave, while figures exceeding 38°C are considered moderate, and those surpassing 40°C are categorised as severe.
