Heatwave grips Chuadanga as temperatures soar to 38.5°C

A moderate heatwave is currently sweeping through Chuadanga, with temperatures reaching a sweltering 38.5 degrees Celsius. 

The intense heat, which began building early Thursday morning, has disrupted public life and left residents suffering under the scorching sun. 

The conditions are so unbearable that few people are venturing outdoors unless absolutely necessary, and there is no relief to be found either inside or outside the home.

The severity of the heat is visibly affecting the town's infrastructure; road asphalt has been observed melting, particularly on the road in front of the municipality. 

The highest temperature was recorded at 3:00 pm on Thursday with 34% humidity, and meteorological reports suggest the mercury could rise even further in the coming days.

Zahidur Rahman, an observer at the Chuadanga Meteorological Office, confirmed that this is the first time this season the temperature has crossed the 38.5-degree mark. 

He indicated that the current moderate heatwave is likely to persist for the next few days.

The extreme weather has taken a heavy toll on the district's labourers. 

Agricultural worker Jamal Uddin described the struggle of working in the fields, stating, "Working has become very difficult in this heat. I have to rest after a while, but if I rest too much, the work will not be completed. So, I am forced to work."

Transport workers are also feeling the impact. Abdus Samad, a battery-powered van driver, reported a significant drop in passengers due to the scorching sun, resulting in lower daily income. 

He also pointed to the melting asphalt as a sign of the extreme temperatures. 

Meanwhile, motorcycle driver Shafiqul Islam spoke of the physical toll while waiting in line for fuel since morning. 

"The temperature was incredibly high today; my body felt like it was burning in the heat of the sun," he said.