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A heatwave is expected to persist across much of the country today, Sunday, although temperatures may ease slightly in some regions, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).
Intense heat has gripped most areas, including the capital, since early morning, with Dhaka recording 29.5°C at 9:00am. Temperatures throughout the day are likely to remain similar to Saturday, though some areas may see a marginal decline.
On Saturday, heatwaves swept across 62 districts, sparing only Sylhet and Sunamganj. The intensity of the heatwave has expanded further compared to the previous day. Chuadanga recorded the highest temperature of the year at 42°C, while Dhaka registered its highest of the year at 40.1°C.
Meteorologists attributed the extreme heat to prolonged sun exposure, low wind speeds, dry southern air, and the absence of rainfall. These factors have also contributed to a rise in heat-related health concerns.
There is, however, a chance of light rain tomorrow, Monday, in parts of Rangpur, Mymensingh, and Sylhet divisions. The likelihood and intensity of rainfall may increase from Tuesday.
On Saturday, at least seven districts experienced severe heatwave conditions, including Dhaka, Rajshahi, Chuadanga, Tangail, Manikganj, Faridpur, Sirajganj, and Jashore — a notable rise from the two districts affected by severe heat a day earlier.