Staff Reporter:
Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecast that several severe thunderstorms accompa-nied by hail and multiple spells of heatwaves are likely across the country during the current month.
According to the Met office’s long-range forecast issued on May 3, the country may experience 5-8 days of light to moderate thunderstorms, including 2-3 days of severe thunderstorms with hail at different places.
Rainfall is expected to remain normal nationwide. Meanwhile, one to two low-pressure systems may develop over the Bay of Bengal, with one potentially intensifying into a depression or cyclone.
The forecast also indicates that one to three mild (36-37.9øC) to moderate (38-39.9øC) heat waves and one severe heat wave (40-41.9øC) could sweep across the country during the month. However, overall day and night temperatures are likely to remain near normal.
Major rivers are expected to flow within normal levels, although isolated heavy rainfall may temporarily raise water levels in northern, northeastern, and southeastern regions.
The average daily evaporation is projected to range between 3.5 and 5.5 mm, while average sunshine duration may be 5.5 to 7.5 hours per day.
The forecast was finalized at a meeting of the Expert Team on Long-Range Weather Forecasting held on May 3 at the Storm Warning Centre in Dhaka, where April’s weather data were reviewed.
