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Temperatures have increased to severe levels in most parts of Bangladesh, with Chuadanga recording the highest of this season at 40.2 degrees Celsius.
The mercury also touched 40 degrees in Pabna’s Ishwardi and 39.7 degrees Celsius in Rajshahi on Saturday.
The highest temperature in Dhaka was 36.6 degrees Celsius, according to bdnews24.com.
In the outlook for the next five days, Bangladesh Meteorological Department said temperatures may rise further.
Intense heat is disrupting daily life, especially for those giving physical labour, while the number of patients suffering from heat-related diseases is rising in hospitals.
For those travelling home from Dhaka and other cities in Ramadan before Eid-ul-Fitr, the heatwave has increased suffering.
When the mercury rises to between 36 and 38 degrees Celsius, meteorologists consider it a light heat wave. A moderate heat wave occurs between temperatures of 38-40 degrees Celsius. A severe heat wave occurs when the temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius.
The Met Office said a severe heat wave is sweeping over Pabna and Chuadanga. The heatwave is mild to moderate in Rangpur, Dhaka, the rest of Rajshahi and Khulna divisions, and the districts of Barishal, Patuakhali Rangamati. The heat wave may abate in some places.
Because of an increase in moisture incursion, the discomfort may persist.
In the forecast for Sunday, the BMD said rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at one or two places over Dhaka, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions, with hail storms at isolated places.
Weather may remain mainly dry, with temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country.
The highest temperature on record in Bangladesh was 45.1 degrees Celsius in Rajshahi on May 18, 1972.
The second highest temperature was recorded at 43 degrees Celsius in Ishwardi last year, after the same level of temperatures were reported in 1995 and 2002.
The long-term forecast says two to four mild to moderate heat waves may occur across Bangladesh in April. One or two severe to very severe heat waves are also possible, with maximum temperatures reaching 40-42 degrees Celsius.
There is also the possibility of Kalbaisakhi or nor’wester storms during the month. A low pressure system, or cyclone, may also develop in the Bay of Bengal.