Bangladesh continues to witness mercury rising amid the heatwave, shattering previous records across the nation. Temperatures exceeded 40°C in 17 regions on Monday, compared to 11 regions on Sunday.
However, a temporary respite from the heat is on the cards, as the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) predicted rain across parts of the country, except for Sylhet, on May 2 or 3.
Meanwhile, Dhakaites continue to feel the heat as Monday's maximum temperature reached 40.3°C, up from 39°C on Sunday and 37.4°C on Saturday.
From 6pm on Sunday until 3pm Monday, Chuadanga registered the highest temperature in the country at 43°C, surpassing Sunday's peak of 42.2°C in Jessore.
Other regions experiencing temperatures above 40°C include Ishwardi, Rajshahi, Baghabari, Koira, Faridpur, Mongla, Khulna, Tangail, Kumarkhali, Badalgachi, Bogra, Aricha, Gopalganj, and Satkhira, totaling approximately 17 regions.
Meteorologist Shahnaz Sultana said at this time last year, such widespread and prolonged high temperatures were unprecedented.
She said: "We've never experienced such widespread high temperatures for such an extended period. It's definitely more intense than last year."
The BMD in its weather bulletin said that rains and thundershowers are expected in Chittagong, Sylhet, Mymensingh, and some other parts of the country, including Dhaka division, from Thursday,
It also said a very severe heatwave is sweeping across Jessore and Rajshahi districts, and a severe heatwave is prevailing in parts of Khulna division and Tangail, Faridpur, Gopalgonj, Naogaon, Pabna and Nilphamari districts.
A mild to moderate heatwave is sweeping over Barisal division, parts of Dhaka, Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions and Mymensingh, Moulvibazar, Rangamati, Chandpur, Noakhali, Feni and Bandarban districts.
The weather may remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy skies elsewhere.
Day temperature may rise slightly and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged.
Due to an increase in moisture incursion, discomfort may persist, it said.
