April is typically the hottest month of the year in Bangladesh, and this year is no exception. The Meteorological Department has forecasted not only mild heat waves but also moderate and severe ones throughout the month. Additionally, there is a risk of low-pressure systems, cyclones, and nor’westers (Kalbaishakhi storms).
According to the long-term weather forecast released on Tuesday (April 1), a mild heatwave is already sweeping across different parts of the country. This heatwave is expected to persist for the next three to four days. Furthermore, one to two heat waves are likely to occur this month. A low-pressure system is also predicted, which may develop into a cyclone.
April’s average temperature is typically 33.2°C, followed by May, which averages 32.9°C.
Meteorologist Md. Omar Faruq stated that a low-pressure system may form around mid-April, though it is still uncertain whether it will intensify into a cyclone. A severe heatwave is more likely towards the end of the month. Additionally, rainfall is expected to be below normal levels.
Heatwave Classifications:
- Mild heatwave: 36°C – 37.9°C
- Moderate heatwave: 38°C – 39.9°C
- Severe heatwave: 40°C – 41.9°C
- Extreme heatwave: 42°C and above
Some areas have already experienced nor'westers this season. The forecast suggests that April may bring five to seven days of light to moderate thunderstorms with hail, along with one to three days of severe nor’westers. Additionally, one to two low-pressure systems could form over the Bay of Bengal, with the possibility of one developing into a cyclone.
Record-Breaking Heat in Recent Years
Last year, Bangladesh recorded its highest temperatures in 76 years, experiencing an extreme 35-day heatwave from April to May. The year 2024 was the hottest in recorded history, both in Bangladesh and globally. This year’s January was also one of the warmest on record.
Due to last year’s prolonged heatwave, nor’westers were significantly less frequent. Typically, April sees nine days of nor’westers and May thirteen days, but in 2024, only two nor'westers occurred in April and four in May.
With higher-than-normal temperatures expected this April, authorities and residents should prepare for extreme heat and possible storms.
