The lightning and thunderstorm sweeping across Dhaka since morning may weaken around noon following moderate to heavy rain, according to Bangladesh Meteorological Department.

"Thunderstorms are short-lived but severe. The storm and lightning are likely to continue for the next two-three hours in Dhaka along with moderate (22-44mm) to heavy (44-88mm) rain," Meteorologist Dr Md Abul Kalam Mollik told The Daily Star around 11am.

He also mentioned that it is safest to stay in during this time.

Photo: Rashed Shumon

"Due to thunderstorm, it will be windy. Do not stand under big trees or electric poles during rain. If you are in an open field, sit on your toes to be safe," the meteorologist added.

At 6:46 am, the wind speed recorded Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport was 70 km per hour.

In addition, 44 mm of rain was recorded in the capital from 6-8am, Dr Md Abul Kalam Mollik also said.

"There is a possibility of hailstorm and rain in many places of Rangpur, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions, some parts of Rajshahi and Dhaka divisions and one or two places in Barisal division during the next 24 hours," he added.

Photo: Mostafa Shabuj

Meanwhile, a moderate to severe nor'wester swept across the country from 10pm yesterday to 2 o'clock today and from 4-6am today, Dr Md Abul Kalam Mollik said.
The strongest storm hit Rangpur from 3-4 am. The maximum wind speed there was 78 kilometers per hour.

After that, the maximum wind speed was in Naogaon--56 kmph.

Besides, nor'wester also hit Chattogram, Brahmanbaria, Tangail and other districts of the country from last night to this morning, the meteorologist also said.

Besides, nor'wester also hit Chattogram, Brahmanbaria, Tangail and other districts of the country from last night to this morning, the meteorologist also said.