April has marked a historic milestone in Bangladesh's weather records, emerging as the hottest month in the last 75 years, according to Dr. Muhammad Abul Kalam Mallik, a seasoned meteorologist at the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

Dr. Mallik stated that the Meteorological Office has been documenting temperature data since 1948, and this April has surpassed all previous records in terms of heat.

He noted that in 2019, both April and May experienced a combined total of 23 days with mild to moderate heatwaves. This year, April alone has witnessed exactly 23 days of mild to moderate heatwaves, setting a new benchmark for prolonged heatwave conditions.

Despite some areas near the border receiving minimal rainfall, the ongoing heatwave is expected to persist, affecting the entire nation. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department issued a heat alert on April 3, extending it due to the likelihood of a prolonged heatwave compared to previous years.

The intense heatwave has led to a surge in health issues, with hospitals reporting an increase in patients suffering from heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, dehydration, exhaustion, and respiratory problems.

Dr. Md Niatuzzaman, Director of Mugda Medical College and Hospital, highlighted the significant rise in patients seeking treatment for heat-related ailments. Special measures have been implemented to address the influx of patients, particularly focusing on vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.

Similar situations are observed across other healthcare facilities in Bangladesh, including Shishu Hospital, Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, and the International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b).

A significant number of patients have been admitted due to heat-related complications, prompting authorities to issue guidelines for prevention. Recommendations include avoiding intense heat, staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, and seeking medical attention if experiencing symptoms of heatstroke.

Dr. Khalilur Rahman, former director of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, emphasized the importance of taking precautionary measures and staying hydrated during extreme heat conditions.

As the country grapples with severe heatwave conditions, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued guidelines to prevent heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses, urging the public to prioritize their health and safety during this challenging period.