Chuadanga has been recording the highest temperature in Bangladesh for four consecutive days as a severe heatwave passes through the district.
The highest temperature in the current season in Bangladesh - 41.3 degrees Celsius, was recorded in Chuadanga at 3pm on Friday (19 April), according to Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).
During this time, the humidity in the air was 17%.
On Thursday (18 April), the district recorded a maximum temperature of 40.4 degrees Celsius, a day before that on 17 April it was 40.7 degrees Celsius, and on 16 April it was 40.6 degrees Celsius.
The ongoing heatwave began shortly after Eid on 12 April and has shown no signs of abating.
Each day, temperatures have continued to climb, breaking the season's previous records.
"For the last couple of days, Chuadanga has been recording the highest temperature in the country. The ongoing heatwave will continue for a few more days,” said Chuadanga Meteorological Office In-Charge Jaminur Rahman.
"If it rains, the temperature will decrease. However, there is currently no likelihood of regular rainfall. Nor'westers might bring rain, but it is not possible to predict in advance," he added.
The lack of rain this year has exacerbated the situation, with average temperatures climbing higher due to insufficient rainfall.
Chuadanga district's proximity to the Tropic of Cancer means that the temperature here is usually higher in March and April compared to normal.
Meanwhile, the local authorities are taking preventive measures to combat the adverse effects of heat.
"Due to the prevailing intense heatwave, there is a risk of heat strokes. So following the advice of the district health department, the district administration is conducting awareness through public announcements by using loudspeakers,” said Chuadanga Deputy Commissioner Kisinger Chakma.
The local populace is suffering greatly due to the excessive heat.
"I came to the market with my bike to sell my bike off. The market is in an open field, and the sun is blazing down. It feels like my body is burning. I didn't even bring an umbrella from home," said a local named Jasim Uddin.
Shamser Mondal, a coconut seller in Chuadanga Sadar, said, "The demand and sales of coconuts have increased. Every day, the number of coconuts I bring to the market is selling out. People are drinking coconut water to find some relief and keep their bodies healthy."
Chuadanga Sadar Hospital has seen an increase in patients. The intense heatwave is particularly affecting children and the elderly.
"Along with the heat, the number of patients suffering from fever, pneumonia, diarrhoea, and respiratory issues has increased. Since Eid, the number of patients has exceeded the number of beds available, and many are receiving treatment in hallways and corridors. Managing the extra load of patients is overwhelming for the doctors and nurses," Chuadanga Sadar Hospital Resident Medical Officer (RMO) Dr Umme Farhana said.
"Children and the elderly are particularly susceptible to diseases due to the intense heat. Extra precautions should be taken. It is important to drink more water particularly cold drinks like lemonade and coconut water. During this time, it's best to stay in cooler places to avoid the heat," she added.
