The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecast widespread rain accompanied by gusty winds across the country on Eid-ul-Fitr, with the prevailing weather pattern expected to continue for several more days.
According to the Met office, an extended low-pressure system over West Bengal and adjoining areas, coupled with a seasonal low over the South Bay of Bengal, has been driving intermittent rainfall across different regions in recent days. This trend is likely to persist through Saturday and beyond.
On Friday, heavy rain and thunderstorms swept through Dhaka from morning until early afternoon, accompanied by strong winds. Although rainfall eased later in the day, overcast skies prevailed, with wind speeds recorded between 10 and 15 kilometres per hour.
The department’s regular bulletin said that in the 24 hours from 9am Saturday, light to moderate rain or thundershowers with temporary gusty or squally winds and lightning flashes are likely at many places across Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram, and Sylhet divisions. Isolated hailstorms may also occur in some areas.
Temperatures are expected to fall slightly nationwide during this period, while the unsettled weather conditions may continue for at least the next three days, the forecast added.
River ports asked to hoist warning signals
Meanwhile, inland river ports have been advised to hoist cautionary signals due to the likelihood of rough weather.
A forecast issued on Friday afternoon said regions including Jashore, Khulna, Dhaka, Faridpur, Madaripur, Barishal, Bhola, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Cumilla, Rangamati, and Chattogram may experience temporary squally weather, with wind speeds ranging from 60 to 80 kilometres per hour, along with rain or thunderstorms. River ports in these areas have been instructed to display signal number 2.
Additionally, Mymensingh, Tangail, and Sylhet regions may see winds of 45 to 60 kilometres per hour with rain or thunderstorms. River ports in these areas have been advised to hoist signal number 1.
Authorities have urged the public, particularly river transport users, to remain cautious during the Eid holiday amid the adverse weather conditions.
