Sweltering temperatures amid a heat wave, which has been sweeping across the country since last week, have thrown the normal life into disarray.

The Met office has predicted that the scorching heat may continue for 4-5 more days.

The drastic change in weather since last week has triggered illnesses and weakness, and fatigue caused by dehydration is another common complaint. Commuters use head scarves, umbrellas and shades to shield and gain respite from the scorching heat.

Amid the stifling summertime temperatures, the city dwellers opted to stay indoors during the daytime if there is no emergency.

People, especially day labourers, rickshaw-pullers and those who work under the direct sunlight, were facing great difficulty doing their work amid the scorching heat.

Many people are seen rushing to electric shops to buy air conditioners, air coolers, stand fans and other types of fans to protect them from the searing heat.

Physicians suggest that people drink plenty of fluids and remain cautious about taking food to prevent heat-related sickness.

 A mild to moderate heat wave has been sweeping across many parts of the country since May 28, said AKM Nazmul Hoque, a meteorologist at the BMD.

He said the current spell of heat may continue for 4-5 more days.

The mild to moderate heat wave is sweeping across Dhaka, Mymensingh and Khulna divisions and the rest parts of Rangpur and Rajshahi divisions and the districts of Sylhet, Patuakhali, Bhola, Barishal, Chandpur, Noakhali and Feni and it may continue, said the BMD.

Country’s highest temperature was recorded at 40.4 degrees Celsius in Rajshahi on Friday and the highest temperature in Dhaka city was 37.5 degrees Celsius, said Nazmul.

Rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at one or two places over Chattogram and Sylhet divisions and weather may remain mainly dry with a temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country.

Day and night temperatures may remain nearly unchanged over the country.