Low pressure may form over Bay in August, risk of flooding

Bangladesh is likely to experience generally normal rainfall in August, but there is a risk of thunderstorms, the formation of low-pressure systems and short-term flooding, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

Daytime and nighttime temperatures may also remain slightly higher than normal during the month.

The forecast was issued in a bulletin signed by Md Azizur Rahman, director (current charge) of the BMD and chairman of its expert committee.

One to two monsoon low-pressure systems may form over the Bay of Bengal in August, with at least one of them potentially intensifying into a monsoon depression, it added.

The country may experience light to moderate thunderstorms on five to six days during the month.

One to two mild to moderate heatwaves may also sweep across different parts of the country during the period.

The BMD said daily average evaporation could range between 2.5 and 4.5 millimetres, while the average duration of sunshine may remain between 5.5 and 6.5 hours.

Regarding rainfall and river conditions, the forecast said heavy rainfall could trigger short-term flooding in the northern, northeastern and southeastern hilly regions of the country.

Water levels in the country's major rivers may also rise overall during the month.

Three low-pressure systems formed over the Bay of Bengal in July, two of which developed into monsoon depressions.

The country's highest temperature last month was 37.5°C, recorded in Rajshahi on July 4, while the lowest was 22°C, recorded in Sylhet on July 21 and 22.

Meanwhile, Chattogram recorded the country's highest daily rainfall of 329 millimetres on July 8.