Reduced rainfall in mid-Bhadra has pushed temperatures higher across Bangladesh, causing oppressive humid heat and disrupting daily life. On Thursday, Rajshahi recorded the country’s highest temperature at 37 degrees Celsius, while Dhaka reached 35.5 degrees, up from 34.1 degrees on Wednesday. Weather officials said several districts have experienced conditions consistent with a mild heatwave in recent days, though it was not formally reported as such.

Meteorologist Shahinul Islam said the situation is temporary and temperatures may ease somewhat from Friday, which is why the heatwave has not been highlighted. The weather department defines temperatures from 36 to 37.9 degrees Celsius in multiple districts as a mild heatwave, 38 to 40 degrees as moderate, 40 to 42 degrees as severe, and above 42 degrees as very severe.

Rainfall may remain limited through Saturday, while higher humidity could intensify the muggy conditions nationwide. A low-pressure system may form around September 1, potentially increasing rainfall from Sunday. In the 24 hours ending 6pm Thursday, most areas received no rain; Teknaf recorded 39 millimetres and Dhaka 34 millimetres in the preceding 24-hour period.