Rajshahi: Rajshahi had been scorching in a heat wave since mid-Chaitra. Though rain appeared for a day or two, it was very scant. The much-desired rain remained absent in Rajshahi. But that rain finally arrived.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, rain began at 12:30 am on Friday. It continued on and off until dawn. During this period, the Rajshahi Meteorological Office recorded 29 millimeters of rainfall, the highest this year. Multiple farmers and the agriculture department said this rain was essential for mangoes and other crops.
The Rajshahi Meteorological Office reported no significant rainfall in April. 1.4 millimeters was recorded on April 7, and 9.2 millimeters on March 28. There was little rain afterward. Temperatures began rising from the second week of March and became intense through April. On April 22, Rajshahi recorded the season’s highest temperature in the country at 40 degrees Celsius. While various parts of the country saw rain late in April, clouds gathered in Rajshahi for several days but no rain fell. Instead, the heat intensified.
Tarek Aziz, observer at the Rajshahi Meteorological Observatory, said more rain may occur in Rajshahi. There was no major storm at night. However, winds of 10 to 12 kilometers per hour and thunder were present. The rain has brought down temperatures in the district.
The long-awaited rain has brought relief to public life. The rain washed away dust from Rajshahi city. Trees and plants have turned greener. This rain has also been a blessing for some crops. Monir Hossain, a farmer from Parila village in Paba upazila, said his paddy is still green. He had been irrigating the paddy. With the rain, irrigation is no longer needed. The rain was also necessary for the mangoes in his orchard.
Mohammad Nasir Uddin, Deputy Director of the Rajshahi Department of Agricultural Extension, said there was no major storm or hail Friday night. This has been very good for mangoes. Rain was also needed for jute. This rainfall has greatly benefited farmers. It has also been good for other crops in the fields.