Dhaka Swelters as Monsoon Humidity Persists Despite Rain Forecast

Dhaka residents are unlikely to find immediate respite from the prevailing muggy weather, as the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) predicted that daytime temperatures will remain largely unchanged. While the stifling humidity continues to cause discomfort across the capital, the meteorological office has forecast light to moderate rain or thundershowers in various parts of the country, including the Dhaka division. Furthermore, some regions may experience moderately heavy to heavy downpours.

According to the weather bulletin issued by the BMD for Dhaka and its adjoining areas, the sky is expected to remain partly cloudy to temporarily overcast. Whilst precipitation is anticipated at different times of the day, it may not be sufficient to drive down the ambient temperatures significantly. During this period, winds are expected to blow from the south and south-east directions at speeds ranging between 10 and 15 kilometres per hour.

Data released by the meteorological centre revealed that at 6:00 am, the temperature in the capital was recorded at 28.1 degrees Celsius, while the relative humidity stood at a stifling 85 per cent. The maximum temperature recorded in the metropolis on the previous day was 31.4 degrees Celsius, whereas the minimum temperature hovered around 28 degrees Celsius. Only a trace amount of rainfall was recorded over the preceding 24 hours. This combination of high humidity and elevated baseline temperatures is the primary driver behind the persistent discomfort felt by the city’s inhabitants.

On a broader national scale, the weather office indicated that the monsoon remains fairly active over Bangladesh. Light to moderate rain or thundershowers, accompanied by temporary gusty winds, are likely to occur at most places over the Rangpur, Mymensingh, and Sylhet divisions. Similarly, many places across the Rajshahi, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, and Chattogram divisions are expected to witness precipitation.

Key Weather Indicators for Dhaka

• Morning Temperature: 28.1°C (at 6:00 am)

• Relative Humidity: 85%

• Previous Day’s Maximum: 31.4°C

• Current Minimum: 28.0°C

• Recent Rainfall: Trace amounts

Meteorologists note that while night-time temperatures across the country might witness a slight decrease, daytime temperatures will remain steady. The phenomenon of “sticky heat” or mugginess is highly characteristic of the sub-continental monsoon season. When the air holds a high percentage of moisture—as evidenced by Dhaka’s 85 per cent humidity—the human body’s natural cooling mechanism of sweat evaporation is severely impeded. Consequently, even when absolute temperatures do not seem exceptionally high on paper, the perceived temperature feels substantially warmer and more oppressive.

Public health experts advise citizens, particularly outdoor labourers, children, and the elderly, to stay adequately hydrated and limit prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours to avoid heat-related illnesses. With the monsoon trough running through the region, weather patterns are expected to remain volatile, bringing sporadic bouts of heavy rain that may offer temporary localized cooling but will do little to alter the overall humid conditions in the coming days.