Strong rain band approaching to drench Bangladesh

A significant change in the weather is forecast amid the ongoing heatwave across most of the country. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department and the private research and observation organisation Bangladesh Weather Observation Team have reported that a strong rain band has formed in the Bay of Bengal and surrounding areas, gradually moving towards Bangladesh. According to their forecast, the effects of this rain band may be felt in phases across almost all regions of the country from April 26 or 27 until May 7 or 8, which will bring an end to the prolonged heatwave. However, as the rain band becomes active, intense storms and lightning strikes are also expected to increase nationwide.

The Bangladesh Weather Observation Team has said the rain band may be most active in the Sylhet division, where heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in the four districts of Sylhet, Sunamganj, Habiganj and Moulvibazar. This could trigger flash floods and short-term waterlogging, with the Surma and Kushiyara basins expected to be particularly affected. During the same period, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Rangpur and Chattogram divisions may also experience relatively higher activity from the rain band, with moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms. Meanwhile, the Rajshahi, Khulna and Barishal divisions may see less impact, with moderate rainfall and localised gusty winds and thunderstorms.

The Dhaka Meteorological Office has said that lightning and nor'westers (Kalbaishakhi) may become more frequent in almost all regions during this time, potentially becoming intense even if short-lived.

Meteorologist Md Azizur Rahman told Views Bangladesh, "This type of rain band typically signals the onset of monsoon winds. While temperatures will drop somewhat, the intensity of storms and rain may increase." He noted that heavy rainfall will be more prevalent in the north-eastern region, with extremely heavy rain possible, especially in Sylhet.

Meteorologist Dr Md Bazlur Rashid of the Bangladesh Meteorological Department's Storm Warning Centre told Views Bangladesh, "The rain band has formed in the Bay of Bengal. Its effects may be felt across different parts of the country in phases from April 26 or 27 until May 7 or 8. This will increase the tendency for nor'westers, which can become intense even if brief. There will also be a risk of severe lightning strikes." He added that lightning intensity and frequency are rising due to climate change, urging everyone to remain cautious. He also noted that while this rain is important for agriculture and the rural economy, excessive rainfall could damage crops, making advance preparations essential.

Climate expert Dr Samarendra Karmakar said, "The formation of such a rain band on the eve of the monsoon is not unusual. It helps reduce heat and plays an important role in agriculture and the environment. While early rainfall is beneficial for Boro paddy, excessive rain could damage crops."

The most significant risks associated with the rain band are intense storms and lightning strikes. Lightning fatalities have increased significantly in Bangladesh in recent years. Farmers, fishermen and all those working in open spaces must remain cautious during this time.

However, before the rain band becomes active, a different weather pattern may be seen. According to the Met Office, mild to moderate heatwaves may persist in several regions until April 25 or 26, keeping daytime temperatures slightly above normal and making the weather feel muggy. Temperatures may remain higher especially in the south-western districts of Khulna, Jashore, Kushtia, Gopalganj, Rajshahi, Chuadanga, Pabna, Satkhira and Chapainawabganj. The heatwave is also expected to continue in the capital Dhaka until the rain band arrives.