The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has issued a warning for thunderstorms and Kalbaishakhi squalls across at least 20 districts, including the capital Dhaka. During this period, wind speeds may reach up to 60 kilometres per hour. River ports in the affected regions have been instructed to display Signal No. 1.
According to the special weather bulletin issued for river ports from 3:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, gusty or squally weather accompanied by rain or thundershowers is likely to sweep across several parts of the country. The wind direction is expected to be from the north or north-west, with speeds ranging between 45 and 60 kilometres per hour.
The districts likely to be affected include Dhaka, Rangpur, Dinajpur, Rajshahi, Pabna, Bogura, Tangail, Mymensingh, Faridpur, Madaripur, Jessore, Kushtia, Khulna, Barishal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Cumilla, Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar and Sylhet. River ports in these areas have been advised to exercise caution and follow Signal No. 1 instructions.
Affected Areas and Conditions
| Region/District Group | Expected Weather | Wind Speed | Direction | River Port Signal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dhaka and central districts | Rain/thundershowers with squalls | 45–60 km/h | North / North-west | Signal No. 1 |
| Northern districts (Rangpur, Dinajpur, Rajshahi, Bogura, Pabna) | Thunderstorms with gusty winds | 45–60 km/h | North / North-west | Signal No. 1 |
| Southern coastal belt (Khulna, Barishal, Patuakhali, Cox’s Bazar, Chattogram, Noakhali) | Rain or thundershowers | 45–60 km/h | North / North-west | Signal No. 1 |
| Eastern region (Sylhet, Cumilla) | Temporary squalls with rain | 45–60 km/h | North / North-west | Signal No. 1 |
Forecast for Dhaka and Surroundings
In its early morning forecast issued at 7:00 am, the Meteorological Department stated that the sky over Dhaka and nearby areas may remain partly cloudy to overcast until around 1:00 pm. There is a possibility of rain or thundershowers during this period. Despite the unsettled weather, daytime temperatures are expected to rise slightly.
At 6:00 am, the recorded temperature in the capital was 24.6 degrees Celsius. Authorities have also provided astronomical data for public reference: sunset in Dhaka is expected at 6:28 pm on Saturday, while sunrise on Sunday is forecast at 5:23 am.
Weather Advisory
The Meteorological Department has urged caution, particularly for river transport operators and those in open water routes, due to the likelihood of sudden gusty winds and reduced visibility during thunderstorms. The Signal No. 1 warning indicates that cautionary measures should be observed, though no immediate suspension of river transport has been ordered.
Residents in the affected districts are advised to remain alert to updated forecasts, as Kalbaishakhi storms during this season can develop rapidly and vary in intensity across different regions.
