Dhaka sizzles in highest temperature in 58 years

Dhaka dwellers on Saturday experienced the hottest day since 1965, causing miserable sufferings to all.   

The highest temperature recorded in the capital Saturday was 40.4 degrees Celsius which has been the maximum temperature since 1965, according to Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

In 1965, the highest 42 degrees Celsius was recorded in the capital. 

The highest temperature recorded in the capital Friday was 40.2 degrees Celsius, which was the same as that was recorded exactly nine years ago on April 14, 2014.

However, Saturday’s highest temperature in the country was recorded in Chuadanga at 42.2 degrees Celsius.

“The surge in temperatures will continue into tomorrow and will stabilise a bit for a few days before it is likely to drop slightly,” says meteorologist Shariful Newaz Kabir. “But temperatures aren’t likely to fall significantly for some time.”

Meteorologist Shariful said Dhaka’s temperature usually remains at 33.7 degrees Celsius in April and it is 33.2 degrees Celsius for the entire country. “It means the average temperature has increased by 7-9 degrees Celsius.”  

“Usually rains subdue the heat at this time of the year. But the trend of rainfall is very low, almost zero, at least for now, especially after Apr 4. This is why the heatwave has worsened.” 

The extreme hot weather has affected daily life amid Eid-ul-Fitr shopping rush during Ramadan. 

When the temperature hits 36 degrees to 38 degrees Celsius, it is considered a mild heatwave. Temperatures of 38 to 40 degrees Celsius are deemed to be a moderate heatwave.

Mercury readings of 40 to 42 degrees Celsius are categorised as a severe heatwave. Temperatures over 42 degrees constitute an extreme heatwave.

A trough of low pressure is currently lying over West Bengal and the adjoining area, as a seasonal low lies over the South Bay, according to the BMD forecast. The weather may stay dry with partly cloudy skies over the country.