Sizzling Heatwave Forces Bangladeshi Schools to Close

Bangladesh is facing a scorching heatwave, with temperatures soaring way above normal. This has led to the closure of schools across the country, leaving millions of students stuck at home. But as some students might cheer the break, the reality isn't quite so sunny.

Heat Makes Learning a Hot Mess

Thirteen-year-old Mohua Akter Nur is one such student. While schools are closed due to the heat, her small apartment in Dhaka feels just as stifling. Fans offer little relief, and power cuts make things even worse. "The heat is awful," Nur says. "Even though school's out, I can't study at home. It's just too hot!"

Nur's situation isn't unique. Many students in Bangladesh lack access to air conditioning, making studying during a heatwave nearly impossible.

City vs. Country: A Tale of Two Heats

Rumana Islam, Nur's mom, feels the heat too. Cooking for the family in such sweltering conditions is exhausting. "Last year was hot," she says, "but this year is unbearable! In the villages, at least there's some shade from trees and a breeze from the fields. Here in Dhaka, we're stuck inside."

Heatwave Woes Across the Nation

The heatwave isn't just affecting Dhaka. Across Bangladesh, temperatures have topped 42°C (108°F). Many people are seeking refuge in rural areas, mosques, or anywhere they can find a little relief.

When Will the Heat Break?

The good news is that authorities expect schools to reopen by April 28th, as temperatures are predicted to drop. However, the bad news is that this heatwave highlights a larger problem: climate change.

Climate Change Makes the Heat Worse

Scientists have shown that heatwaves are becoming more frequent, intense, and longer-lasting due to climate change. This is a worrying trend, especially for a country like Bangladesh, which already faces challenges from floods and cyclones.

Heat Brings More Than Just Sweat

The intense heat isn't just uncomfortable; it's also causing health problems. In southern Bangladesh, higher temperatures have increased the salinity of water supplies, leading to a rise in diarrhea cases.

Feeling the Burn

For many Bangladeshis, like Nur's father Mohammad Yusuf, the heat makes daily life a struggle. "Driving in this heat is brutal," he says. "Air conditioning helps a bit, but outside it feels like you're burning up!"

Looking Ahead: A Hotter Future?

The current heatwave is a stark reminder of the challenges Bangladesh faces due to climate change. Hopefully, finding solutions to cool things down will be a priority before things get even hotter.

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