June witnesses considerably less rain than usual

The extent of rainfall in the ongoing monsoon so far is considerably less than usual, as Dhaka has witnessed only 12 millimeter rainfall in the last several days.

Dhaka and neighbouring regions witnessed 265.3 millimeter (mm) of downpour in June though usual rate for the same is 356mm, according to data available with the Met office.

June - September period is considered as rainy season in the country.

However, as per the prediction, the level of rainfall may increase in coming days.

In its three-month forecast, Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said Dhaka and neighbouring districts may witness 330-405 mm downpour in the whole month of July, while 368 mm is usual during this period.

Due to seasonal heavy rainfall northern, north-eastern and mid regions are expected to face short to medium term floods.

Daily average evaporation is expected to be 3.5 to 4.5 mm, while average bright sunlight timing will be 5.5 to 6.5 hours, according to agriculture weather forecast.

Usual downpour is also expected during August and September, when the Bay of Bengal will face one or two depressions, the Met office data stated.

When contacted, Deputy Director of BMD Md Abdur Rahman said the country particularly Dhaka region has already witnessed an advanced monsoon this year.

"The level of rainfall in June and July so far is much lower than typical," he said.

He also said Dhaka region witnesses 25 per cent lower precipitation than typical rate for the month.

Usually it rains for 14 days in June but it rained 26 days in the month.

"Though number of rainy-days increased, the volume was much lower," he said.

Meanwhile, the current weather pattern may not affect the cultivation of Aman rice in the country, officials said.

"Based on the weather data we have gathered so far, I think there will be no major impact on rice cultivation in upcoming season," Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) additional director Alhaj Uddin Ahmed said.

He also said excessive downpour, causing flood, may damage the crops.

[email protected]