Chuadanga, situated in Bangladesh, grapples with scorching temperatures as the mercury climbs to a staggering 42.3°C on Saturday afternoon. This record high comes amidst a severe heatwave impacting 13 districts, including all within the Khulna division.
At 3 pm on Saturday, Chuadanga experienced its highest temperature of the day, accompanied by a humidity level of 18% across the district. Tahmina Nasrin, the weather observer at Chuadanga First Class Meteorological Observatory, notes the exacerbation of the heatwave, signaling the onset of a very severe heatwave following a prolonged period of intense heat.
The absence of rainfall exacerbates the heatwave, with Nasrin highlighting the potential for a considerable drop in temperatures with rain. However, current forecasts offer little relief, with no rain anticipated in the near future, although the possibility exists during storms.
Tragically, the heatwave claimed a life in Chuadanga on Saturday, as Jakir Hossain, 33, succumbed to heatstroke in Thakurpur village under Damurhuda upazila.
Local authorities responded to the escalating temperatures by raising public awareness of the dangers of heatstroke and other health risks associated with extreme heat, utilizing loudspeakers to disseminate information.
The ongoing heatwave has disrupted normal life in Chuadanga, with temperatures reaching 40.4°C on Thursday, 40.8°C on Wednesday, and 40.6°C on Tuesday, underscoring the severity of the weather conditions.
Elsewhere, Jessore reported the highest temperature in the country at 42.6°C on Saturday, highlighting the widespread impact of the heatwave across Bangladesh. In response, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department issued a 72-hour heat alert nationwide, with forecasts indicating the possibility of continued harsh weather conditions for the next week.
Last year, Pabna recorded the highest temperature in the country at 43°C, emphasizing the recurring threat posed by heatwaves. These weather events are categorized based on temperature ranges, with a severe heatwave classified when temperatures range between 40°C to 42°C, highlighting the extreme conditions faced by residents in affected areas.
