Ramping up preparedness amid severe heatwaves
As Bangladesh grapples with the El Nino year of 2023-2024, a relentless heatwave tightens its grip on various regions of the country. Recent reports from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) indicate that soaring temperatures, ranging from 40 degrees Celsius to over 43 degrees Celsius, have been scorching 51 out of 64 districts and are anticipated to persist in the next few days.
The most severely affected districts include Rajshahi, Pabna, Khulna, Bagerhat, Jashore, Chuadanga and Kushtia, where the heatwave is at its peak. Moderate to severe heatwaves are also sweeping over Dhaka, Rangpur and Barishal divisions, as well as other parts of Rajshahi and Khulna divisions, and the districts of Mymensingh, Moulvibazar, and Rangamati. Authorities have responded by taking proactive measures, including the closure of schools and colleges. The situation is dire, with forecasts indicating a steady rise in temperatures, potentially reaching 44-45 degrees by mid-May.
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Several NGOs, in collaboration with various stakeholders, have initiated measures to address the ongoing crisis. These include the development of heatwave risk communication strategies, distribution of essential supplies such as safe drinking water, and coordination with local authorities to establish cooling centres.
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Bangladesh can leverage its established disaster management infrastructure to tackle the looming threat of severe heatwaves. Early warnings will be disseminated through local channels, prioritising local and understandable languages for effective communication. Those with internet access can utilise the Disaster Alert app by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, while others can dial the 109 hotline for weather forecasts and 16123 for agro-met advisories. The government can deploy volunteers, coordinating through disaster management committees, which will amplify the message at scale. These proactive measures aim to prompt early action, drawing on indigenous knowledge to adapt to prolonged heatwave spells. Moreover, amid escalating climate crises, cross-boundary cooperation, data sharing and joint initiatives are essential for comprehensive mitigation efforts.