During the summer this time, it seems as though life is evaporating, with the temperature feeling considerably higher than what the mercury indicates. The sweltering heat has taken its toll on people of all ages, resulting in an increase in illnesses.
Meteorologists identified two reasons for this uncomfortable heat. According to them, the main reason for the current heat is humidity. Besides, this situation is also due to less rain.
Last year, the weather was not so extreme due to nor'wester before monsoon. In contrast, the absence of rain during this period has contributed to the intense heat the country is experiencing.
According to last year's records, the monsoon arrived in the country on June 4, 2022, coinciding with the Bengali month of Jyaistha. This year, the anticipated timeframe for the monsoon's arrival has been set for June 10. However, the Meteorological Department predicts that the monsoon may arrive later, specifically during the month of Aashar.
They said that it is difficult to be very precise this time of the change of season. Along with this, there is the effect of climate change. All in all, as the monsoon is coming a little late this time, there is also a fear of less rain.
Meteorologists have observed that the air humidity levels are significantly higher this year, leading to increased perspiration and discomfort. The elevated humidity causes moisture to linger, making it difficult for things to dry quickly. As a result, an oppressive heat is experienced, adding to the overall discomfort.
According to the weather forecast, the monsoon was supposed to arrive in the first week of June. But now they are saying that it will come to the coast of Bangladesh in the second week.
It is anticipated that the wind carrying the monsoon rains will take a few more days to encompass the entire country. As a result, it is expected that monsoon rains will likely commence across the country by the third week.
However, prior to the arrival of the monsoon, scattered light rain is forecasted in various regions starting from June 10. This precipitation is expected to bring some relief from the prevailing heat, subsequently lowering the overall temperature in Bangladesh.
However, the Meteorological Office has advised that despite the arrival of scattered light rain, the complete alleviation of heat is not expected until the onset of the full-fledged monsoon. This is due to the prevailing heatwave, which has significantly elevated the temperature of the soil.
Therefore, it may take some time for the ground temperature to cool down, resulting in the persistence of high temperatures until the monsoon brings more substantial relief.
Meanwhile, the long-term forecast of the Meteorological Department also said that there is a possibility of less than normal rainfall in the country in June. Southwest monsoon may spread over the country in the second week of this month.
Besides, the forecast for the next 24 hours said that there may be rain with gusty winds or rain with thunder in two places in Barisal and Chittagong divisions. Elsewhere in the country, the weather will remain mainly dry with partly cloudy sky.
Regarding the heat wave, it is said that intense heat wave is flowing over Jessore, Rajshahi, Dinajpur and Saidpur districts.
Mild to moderate heat wave is prevailing over Chittagong, Comilla, Chandpur, Noakhali, Feni and Bandarban districts along with Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barisal, Sylhet divisions and remainder of Rangpur and Rajshahi divisions and may persist.
Daytime temperature may drop slightly in Barisal and Chittagong divisions. Besides, the temperature may remain almost unchanged in other parts of the country.