A sudden spell of heavy rain swept across Dhaka on Friday afternoon, bringing much-needed relief from several days of intense heat while simultaneously disrupting daily life with waterlogging, traffic congestion and delays for commuters.
The rain followed a mostly hot and humid day, with uncomfortable conditions persisting across the capital until dark clouds gathered in the afternoon. Rainfall then began in several areas, at times intensifying into heavy showers accompanied by thunder and lightning.
Downpours were reported across multiple parts of the city, including Rampura, Banasree, Malibagh, Moghbazar, Bailey Road, Kakrail, Shantinagar, Motijheel, Paltan, Kamalapur, Shahjahanpur, Banglamotor, Shahbagh, Panthapath, Dhanmondi and Green Road.
The sudden change in weather significantly slowed traffic movement on major roads. Office-goers returning home faced long delays as vehicles moved through congested, slippery streets with reduced visibility. Many pedestrians were seen taking shelter at shops, bus stops and nearby buildings while the rain continued.
Several low-lying areas experienced waterlogging shortly after the rainfall, adding to commuter difficulties. Residents said some roads became difficult to navigate within a short time due to accumulated rainwater, highlighting ongoing concerns over the capital’s drainage capacity during the monsoon season.
One commuter, Mohitur Rahman, a private-sector employee travelling through Moghbazar, said the rain brought welcome relief from the heat but also caused significant delays. “The weather became pleasant after the rain, but traffic movement slowed significantly. Some roads were already holding water,” he said.
Weather experts said the rainfall was part of active monsoon conditions over Bangladesh. According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), an extension of a low-pressure area currently stretches from Gangetic West Bengal to the North Bay of Bengal, keeping the southwest monsoon fairly active over the country.
The BMD forecast said that many areas in Rangpur, Mymensingh, Chattogram, Barishal and Sylhet divisions are likely to experience light to moderate rain or thundershowers, along with temporary gusty winds and lightning. Similar conditions may occur in parts of Dhaka, Rajshahi and Khulna divisions, with some areas likely to see moderate to heavy rainfall.
Experts advised residents to remain cautious during sudden storms, particularly while travelling, as monsoon rains often lead to rapid waterlogging, traffic disruption and occasional utility interruptions.
While the rain offered respite from high humidity and heat, urban observers noted that recurring waterlogging during short but intense showers continues to underscore the need for improved drainage management in the capital.
