The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has issued an urgent weather advisory warning of impending squalls and heavy rainfall across thirteen districts, including the capital city of Dhaka, through Monday morning. Meteorologists predict temporary gusty or squally winds reaching speeds between 45 and 60 kilometres per hour, accompanied by scattered rain and localized thunderstorms.

The forecast, valid from 9:00 pm on Sunday, 16 August, until 9:00 am on Monday, highlights widespread atmospheric instability sweeping across the central, southern, and south-eastern regions of the country. According to the national weather bulletin, surface winds blowing from the south or south-east are expected to pick up momentum rapidly overnight, bringing sudden downpours and adverse conditions to major riverine routes.

The meteorological office has identified thirteen key districts likely to experience the brunt of the turbulent weather: Dhaka, Rajshahi, Pabna, Faridpur, Jessore, Kushtia, Khulna, Barisal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Comilla, Chattogram, and Cox’s Bazar. In response to the anticipated squalls, maritime and inland transport authorities have instructed all river ports within these specified areas to hoist River Warning Signal Number 1. The warning advises vessel operators, particularly those managing smaller passenger launches and cargo trawlers, to navigate with heightened caution due to reduced visibility and choppy river conditions.

Monsoon activity across the Bengal delta routinely intensifies during mid-August, as moisture-laden air masses off the Bay of Bengal interact with inland trough lines. These micro-scale weather systems frequently generate short-lived, intense convective storms capable of causing localized urban waterlogging, disrupting morning commutes, and creating hazardous navigation conditions along inland waterways.

Commuters and residents in Dhaka and the southern coastal belts have been advised to take necessary precautions during the early morning travel hours. Riverine transport operators across the south-western and south-eastern river basins remain on alert as local authorities monitor water levels and wind speeds to ensure public safety along key transit routes.