Humidity intensifies discomfort in Dhaka as heatwave sweeps nation

A rising heatwave is sweeping across Bangladesh as temperatures climb sharply in mid-Chaitra, with several regions nearing 40°C, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

In the capital Dhaka, heat and high humidity have significantly increased discomfort, with temperatures exceeding 36°C over the past 24 hours. Despite partly cloudy skies, the lack of rainfall has intensified the sweltering conditions.

The BMD said daytime temperatures may rise slightly further, with little immediate relief expected.

In its forecast issued at 7:00am on Saturday (April 4) for the next six hours, the department said weather in and around Dhaka is likely to remain mainly dry. Winds from the west or southwest may blow at speeds of 10–15 km/h, adding to the discomfort.

At 6:00am, Dhaka recorded a temperature of 27°C with humidity at 87 per cent, creating a stifling atmosphere. On Friday, the city’s maximum temperature reached 36.2°C, while the minimum recorded today was 26.8°C.

No rainfall was reported in the past 24 hours.

Sunset in Dhaka is expected at 6:16pm today, while sunrise tomorrow is scheduled for 5:47am.

Meanwhile, the latest BMD outlook said mild to moderate heatwave conditions are prevailing over Dhaka, Faridpur, Gopalganj, Manikganj, Narayanganj, Rangamati, Chandpur, Barishal and Patuakhali, as well as the Rajshahi and Khulna divisions.

The heatwave is expected to persist in the coming days.