Monsoon
Light to moderate rain likely in Dhaka, other parts of country
Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has predicted light to moderate rain or thundershowers in eight divisions, including Dhaka, over 24 hours starting from 9 am today (September 17, 2023).
“Light to moderate rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty wind are likely to occur at many places over Dhaka, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions; at a few places over Mymensingh and Khulna divisions; and at one or two places over Rangpur and Rajshahi divisions with moderately heavy to heavy falls at places over Dhaka, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions,” it said.
Read: Dhaka's air quality 'moderate' this morning
Meanwhile, a mild heatwave is sweeping over the districts of Dhaka, Tangail, Rajshahi, Sirajganj, Rangpur, Panchagarh, Kurigram, Moulvibazar, Jashore and Chuadanga, and it may abate in some places.
Daytime temperatures may remain nearly unchanged, and nighttime temperatures may fall slightly across the country.
The maximum and minimum temperatures were recorded at 37.5 and 25.2 degrees Celsius in Saidpur and Kutubdia respectively.
Read: Monte Rosa glacier loses 60 m of thickness in 10 years
The weather office recorded the highest 27mm rainfall in Noakhali’s Hatiya upazila.
Monsoon is less active over Bangladesh and moderate over North Bay.
Light to moderate rain likely across country in 24 hours: BMD
Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has predicted light to moderate rain or thundershowers in eight divisions, including Dhaka, in 24 hours commencing 9 am on Monday (September 11, 2023).
Read: Weather forecast: Light to moderate rain likely in Dhaka, other divisions over 24 hours
“Light to moderate rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at most places over Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions; at many places over Rangpur, Mymensingh and Dhaka divisions and at a few places over Rajshahi and Khulna divisions with moderately heavy to heavy falls at places over the country," said a regular BMD bulletin on Monday.
Day and night temperatures may fall slightly over the country.
Country’s highest 132 mm rainfall was recorded in Chattogram’s Kutubdia in 24 hours till 6am today.
Read: Weather forecast: Light to moderate rain likely in Dhaka, other divisions
Meanwhile, mild heat wave is sweeping Rajshahi, Pabna, Sirajgonj, Rangpur, Nilphamari, Jashore, Chuadanga, Barishal, Patuakhali and Bhola districts and it may abate in some places, said the bulletin.
Monsoon is fairly active over Bangladesh and moderate over North Bay, added the bulletin.
150 people of Kurigram’s Horijon Polli face waterlogging
Waterlogging has become a never-ending problem for the residents of Horijon Polli in Chilmari upazila of Kurigram district, thanks to the lack of adequate measures of the local administration.
Some 150 people of 30 families are going through untold suffering due to the waterlogging problem as the whole area has been submerged following the torrential rainfall and onrush of water from the upstream over the last week.
Read more: Dhaka city corporations grapple with persistent waterlogging problem on multiple fronts
During a recent visit to the Horijon Polli, at Sabujpara under Thanahat union, this correspondent found water all around and the residents of the area were seen fetching safe drinking water and food after wading through waist-deep water.
Moni Lal, a local, said the whole area gets inundated even after little rain and residents of the area have been living in such a situation for the past one week. If the water increases further then they have to move to a safer place.
Read more:Monsoon coming, no solution to Dhaka’s waterlogging in sight
Besides, they did not receive any assistance from the authorities though eight days have passed, claimed the local people.
Contacted, Rafiul Alam, Chilmari Upazila Nirbahi Officer, said a list is being prepared and the higher authorities concerned have been informed.
Read more: Waterlogging turns severe in Chattogram after heavy rains for 3rd consecutive day
Teesta riverbank erosion in Lalmonirhat: Fear of losing homes grips locals
Residents of areas along the Teesta river in Aditmari upazila of Lalmonirhat district are living in fear of losing their homes and crops as erosion has taken a serious turn.
Several thousand families living on the riverbanks were facing waterlogging issues due to the torrential rainfall last week. Several hundred hectares of cropland were damaged during this period.
But when the floodwater started to recede, panic gripped them as erosion took a serious turn in seven to eight points along the left side of the river.
Over the past few days, 25-30 houses, croplands and several establishments were washed away due to the erosion, forcing many families to live under the open sky.
Rising river waters trigger flooding, erosion concerns in Kurigram
Many have shifted their valuables including furniture on the roadside and near the flood protection dam.
Meanwhile, residents of Gobordhan and Garibullatari villages under Mahishkhocha union of the upazila saw severe erosion at the dead night on Tuesday near the embankment. A number of establishments including a mosque have gone into the river.
The families of Rabiul, Bhuttu and Yeakub Ali are living under the open sky as their homesteads were washed away due to the erosion.
Locals said if the authorities do not take any steps immediately, the embankment would also go into the river.
Villagers spend sleepless nights as Madhumati river banks erosion intensifies in Faridpur
They also demanded constructing a permanent dam along the riverbank.
Sunil Kumar, executive engineer of Lalmonirhat Water Development Board, said erosion occurred in seven-eight points along the riverbanks while erosion at spur dam-2 took a serious turn.
They have informed the matter to the high official concerned, he said.
After visiting the affected areas, GR Sarwar, Upazila Nirbahi Officer of Aditmari upazila, said a list of affected people is being prepared and assistance will be provided as per the list.
Teesta erosion worsens in Kurigram; 50 homes swept away
Off-season watermelons making Narail farmers smile
Farmers in Narail district are seeing profits multiplied up to six times by growing off-season watermelons in Kalia upazila, thanks to the local agricultural department officials for introducing hybrid variants of watermelons in the area.
Normally, February to April is the season of the mouth-watering summer fruit but officials of the local Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) introduced hybrid variants in Kalia upazila during monsoon.
A total of eight hectares of land in Kalia upazila are being used to grow the off-season watermelons, with a target to produce 15 tonnes of the fruit per hectare. The DAE officials provided fertilizers, seeds and cash to the farmers and with their help, watermelons are being cultivated along the bank of the fish enclosures and waterbodies in Gobindanagar, Salamabad, and Bhaktadanga areas.
On a remote char in country's poorest district, watermelon cultivation transforms lives
Farmers are growing Asian-2, Tripti and Black Baby hybrid variants of watermelon. These variants taste sweet and delicious, they say.
Farmers say they spent Tk 15,000-20,000 per hectare and sold watermelons worth Tk 1.5 lakh to 2 lakh per hectare.
Sheikh Kamal Hossain, a resident of Bhaurir Char in the upazila and assistant professor at Nabadanga Degree College, said, “I took training from Dumuria upazila of Khulna district and after that, I have planted 1000 saplings of watermelon on seven acres of land along the fish enclosures on an experimental basis last year. I have earned Tk 2 lakh from this.”
This year, he planted 2000 saplings on the same land after spending Tk 70,000. He expects to earn Tk 4 lakh from watermelon production this year.
Rain, hailstorm worry Khulna watermelon growers
Pradeep Kumar Barman, councilor of ward-6 under Kalia municipality, said this year he planted 12,000 saplings along the bank of 150 bigha of fish enclosures during monsoon. “So far I have spent Tk 10 lakh. Within 35 days, flowers started to bloom and I started harvesting watermelon within 60-65 days of planting. Each watermelon weighs almost 4 kg.”
He also expected to produce 2 lakh kgs of watermelon this year and if the market prices remain favorable, he could be able to earn Tk 40 lakh.
Low price dims the joy of watermelon growers in Khulna despite bumper harvest
Depak Kumar Roy, deputy director of Narail DAE, said the farmers are earning profits up to six times considering their expenditure, within 60-65 days of cultivation. “We are providing all-out support through using smart technology and providing fertilizer and pesticides for good production of watermelon.”
Eva Mallik, Kalia Upazila Agriculture Officer, said “Watermelon is no longer a seasonal fruit now, and it can be produced throughout the year. Flowers start to bloom within 40-50 days of planting saplings and 70-80 days are needed for harvesting.”
Most of the farmers in the district are showing interest in cultivating the off-season hybrid watermelon on their lands as it has proven to be profitable, he said.
Read more: Bangladesh can go for Chinese perennial rice farming to reduce cost and labour
Maritime ports asked to keep local cautionary signal 3 hoisted
Maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep local cautionary signal no. 3 hoisted as the monsoon depression over India’s West Bengal-Bihar and adjoining area moved west-northwestwards and now lies over north Chhattisgarh and adjoining area.
It is likely to move in a west-northwesterly direction further and weaken gradually into a well-marked low, said a special bulletin of the Met office on Thursday (August 03, 2023).
Maritime ports asked to hoist cautionary signal 3
Under its influence steep pressure gradient persists over north Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh.
Squally weather is likely to continue over north Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh.
Maritime ports asked to hoist cautionary signal 3
All fishing boats and trawlers in the north Bay have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice.
Maritime ports advised to lower signal
Low-lying coastal areas could be inundated due to monsoon land depression: BMD
Low-lying areas of Bangladesh's coastal districts and their offshore islands and chars are likely to be inundated by the wind-driven surge, at the height of 2-3 feet above normal astronomical tide, under the influence of a full moon and steep pressure gradient.The monsoon deep depression over Khulna and adjoining areas of Bangladesh moved west-northward and weakened into a land depression. It now lies over India's West Bengal-Bihar and adjoining areas, said a Bangladesh Meteorological Department bulletin on Wednesday (August 02, 2023).
Read: Floods around Chinese capital kill at least 20, leave 27 missing as thousands evacuatedIt is likely to move in a west-northwesterly direction further and weaken gradually.Under its influence, a steep pressure gradient persists over the north Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh.
Read: Chandpur wholesale market flooded with hilsa, price coming downSqually weather is likely to continue over north Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh.The maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra have been advised to keep local cautionary signal no. 3 hoisted. All fishing boats and trawlers over north Bay have been advised to remain in shelter till further notice.
How to Keep Your Clothes Fresh During Rainy Season
The rainy season brings the challenge of keeping clothes fresh and dry. Due to the high humidity levels in monsoon, damp clothes bear an unpleasant, and musty smell. Furthermore, wearing these can lead to infection and cold. Let’s take a look into some effective ways to protect clothes from moisture and germs on the wettest of days.
Tips to Keep Laundry Clean and Hygienic in Rainy Season
Washing Clothes Immediately
It’s recommended to wash clothes immediately after exposure to rain. Prompt washing prevents dirt, bacteria, and musty odors from setting in, ensuring clothes stay fresh and clean throughout the damp weather.
Prioritizing Clothes for Laundry
During the rainy season, it’s better to prioritize important clothes for laundry. Washing essential items promptly ensures fresh and clean clothes when one needs them the most. This keeps important clothes ready to wear, regardless of the weather outside.
Read more: 10-Step Korean Skin Care Routine
Pre-soaking Before Washing
Pre-soaking clothes before washing is like a game changer during the rainy season. One needs to fill a bucket with water and a little detergent, then soak clothes for 30 minutes. This helps remove dirt, sweat, and odors, keeping them fresh and clean.
Using Scented Detergent
One may opt for scented detergent while washing clothes during the rainy season. The pleasant fragrance will help combat any musty odor caused by dampness, leaving clothes smelling fresh and clean even in the rainy weather.
Using Fabric Conditioner
Using fabric conditioner during the rainy season is one of the best tips to keep clothes fresh and soft. It not only adds a delightful fragrance but also helps to reduce static and make clothes more comfortable to wear. Additionally, it ensures that clothes stay in great condition throughout the damp weather.
Read more: Monsoon Hair Fall Prevention: How to Care for Hair during Rainy Season
Using Vinegar in the Wash
Adding a cup of white vinegar to laundry can work wonders for eliminating odors from clothes. Apart from acting as a natural fabric softener, vinegar is also an effective antibacterial agent. The result is fresh-smelling and sanitized garments, ensuring optimal hygiene during the monsoon.
Washing in Small Batches
It’s clever to avoid washing clothes in big batches during the rainy season. Washing smaller loads allows for better cleaning and drying, preventing dampness and musty smells. Moreover, it helps clothes to stay fresh.
Removing Clothes Fast from Washing Machine
To keep clothes fresh, it would be wise to promptly remove them from the washing machine when the cycle ends. Leaving wet clothes sitting can lead to mildew and musty odors. By taking them out immediately, one can prevent dampness and ensure clothes stay clean and smell fresh.
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Monsoon Hair Fall Prevention: How to Care for Hair during Rainy Season
This year, the sweltering summer heat is lingering, and the monsoon's arrival remains elusive. With soaring heat, the anticipation for the much-awaited monsoon grows. However, with refreshing rain and lush greenery, monsoon comes with some challenges, particularly for our hair. The rainy season can lead to several hair problems, with hair fall being a common concern. So, let’s explore why it occurs and essential tips to care for hair during this damp and humid season.
Why do we lose hair during monsoon?
According to a research study published by the World Trichology Society, people tend to experience approximately 30% more hair loss during the monsoon season than other times of the year. During this time, the atmosphere becomes more humid, causing the hair to absorb excess moisture. This makes the hair shaft swell, weakening its structure. Additionally, the scalp becomes more susceptible to fungal infections due to the accumulation of sweat and dirt.
These factors collectively contribute to increased hair fall during the rainy season. Furthermore, the change in weather conditions affects our hair growth cycle. The hair follicles may enter a resting phase, leading to excessive shedding. Moreover, the lack of proper care during this period exacerbates the issue, resulting in dull, lifeless, and fragile hair.
Read more: Which is the Best Country for Hair Transplant?
How to care for hair during rainy season
Keeping hair dry
As much as possible, one should try to keep hair dry during the rainy season. Try to use an umbrella or a raincoat with a hood to protect your hair from getting drenched. If your hair gets wet, make sure to dry it gently and completely as soon as you can.
Cleaning hair regularly
Frequent shampooing is essential during the monsoon to cleanse the scalp and hair from sweat, dirt, and excess oil. It would be better to opt for a mild, pH-balanced shampoo that suits an individual's hair type. Avoiding hot water is highly suggested, as it can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz.
Conditioning hair properly
Conditioning is a vital step in monsoon hair care. Experts suggest applying a good-quality conditioner from mid-length to the ends of the hair after shampooing. This helps to restore moisture and smooth down the cuticles, reducing frizz and breakage.
Read more: What's Hair Transplant and What are the Most Popular Methods?
Combing wisely
For a proper monsoon hair care routine, it would be great to use a wide-toothed comb to detangle gently. It ensures enough space between the teeth to prevent hair breakage.
One should avoid combing wet hair immediately to minimise breakage.
Also, refraining from sharing combs, especially during the monsoon, reduces the risk of fungal infections and helps to maintain healthier hair.
Avoiding hairstyling when wet
Trying hairstyles with wet hair is highly discouraged, as it weakens the hair follicles and leads to increased breakage. Wet hair is more susceptible to damage, and the tension from combing can cause stress on the already fragile strands. It would be the best option to allow hair to dry naturally before styling it to maintain strong and healthy hair.
Flood situation in Netrokona’s low-lying areas may improve in 24 hours: FFWC
Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) predicted that the flood situation in low-lying areas of Netrokona districts may improve in 24 hours.
FFWC, in its regular bulletin, said Brahmaputra River remains unchanged but Jamuna river water is in a rising trend, which may continue in 24 hours starting from 9 am on Thursday (July 06, 2023).
Read: Rise in Teesta water may cause short-term flood in Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari in 24 hours: FFWC warns
Water in the Ganga-Padma Rivers is in a rising trend, which may continue in 72hours, it reads.
Besides, major rivers in the northeastern region of the country are in a falling trend except Khowai, Monu and Dhalai, which may continue in 48 hours, the bulletin said.
Read more: Better flood management: China offers assistance for dredging rivers in Bangladesh