A severe heat wave has engulfed Bangladesh, pushing temperatures to record highs not seen in over three decades. On Tuesday, the mercury soared to 43.8 degrees Celsius (110.8 degrees Fahrenheit) in the country’s southwestern district of Jessore, marking the highest temperature recorded since 1989, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).
The scorching heat is sweeping across large parts of the South Asian nation, affecting millions of residents and disrupting daily activities. Streets in major cities like Dhaka are noticeably quieter during peak hours as people seek shelter from the intense sun. Local markets have reported an increase in the demand for cooling products and fresh fruits to combat dehydration.
Health officials are urging citizens to take necessary precautions. “We advise everyone to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, and check on vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and young children,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Health.
The heat wave is also impacting the agricultural sector, with concerns rising about the potential effects on crop yields. Farmers in the affected regions are struggling to keep their fields irrigated, and there are fears that prolonged exposure to such high temperatures could damage staple crops like rice and jute.
Environmental experts point to global climate change as a contributing factor to the increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves in South Asia. “This is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change on both a local and global scale,” remarked Dr. Amina Rahman, a climate scientist at the University of Dhaka.
The government is monitoring the situation closely and has initiated measures to provide support, including setting up cooling centers and distributing water in the hardest-hit areas. As temperatures remain high, communities are coming together to help one another through the challenging conditions.
Residents are hopeful that relief will come soon. In the meantime, staying informed and prepared is crucial as the country navigates this extreme weather event.
Reference(s):
Heat wave engulfs Bangladesh with record temperature since 1989
cgtn.com
