Dhaka has been enduring an intense spell of heat and humidity for eight consecutive days, with temperatures reaching 36°C on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Despite brief rainfall of 8 millimeters in parts of the city, the heat has intensified due to high moisture in the air. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department reported mild heatwaves sweeping across 16 districts, including Dhaka, Khulna, and Rajshahi, and warned that the oppressive weather could continue until early June.

Meteorologist A.K.M. Nazmul Haque explained that limited rainfall has increased atmospheric moisture, preventing sweat from evaporating and making the heat feel 5–7°C higher than recorded. The extreme conditions have disrupted daily life, with laborers, rickshaw pullers, and street vendors struggling to work under the scorching sun. Public transport users were seen fanning themselves to cope with the suffocating heat.

Hospitals in Dhaka, including ICDDR,B and Dhaka Medical College, have reported a surge in heat-related illnesses such as diarrhea, dehydration, and heatstroke, particularly among children and the elderly. Doctors advised avoiding direct sunlight, staying hydrated, and refraining from consuming unsafe street food. Meteorologists said relief is unlikely until widespread rainfall occurs.