Thunderstorms, hail possible in 3 divisions amid intense heat

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by rain in parts of the country, with a possibility of hail in some areas, as intense heat continues to affect multiple regions.

According to the 24-hour forecast issued on Friday morning, Dhaka, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions may experience temporary gusty winds along with rain or thundershowers at one or two places.

The forecast also said that the weather in other divisions is likely to remain mainly dry with partly cloudy skies in some areas. Day and night temperatures are expected to remain nearly unchanged across the country.

On Thursday, the highest temperature was recorded at 36.5°C in Rangamati and Kumarkhali of Kushtia, while the lowest temperature of 20.6°C was recorded in Dimla of Nilphamari.

Rainfall was reported in several areas, with the highest 16mm recorded in Jashore, followed by 15mm in Gopalganj. Around 11mm of rainfall was also recorded in Bazarhat of Rangpur and Bhola.

Meteorologists said that rising temperatures often lead to atmospheric instability, which can trigger thunderstorms and hail formation. Meteorologist AKM Nazmul Haque noted that in April and May, cloud tops in regions including Sylhet can rise above 12 kilometres, increasing the likelihood of hail accompanied by lightning.