Dhaka awoke cloaked in a new guise on Saturday (1 November), as heavy afternoon clouds draped a sombre, almost theatrical veil over the bustling streets.

By the evening, the sky had grown even darker, as if the afternoon had folded quietly into dusk. 

At precisely 4:30 pm, the last rays of the sun disappeared, giving way to a gentle drizzle. After 5 pm, the drizzle intensified into a downpour, leaving many caught unprepared without umbrellas.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has reported that, from 9 am onwards over the next 24 hours, light to moderate rain or thunderstorms are likely over many parts of the Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Dhaka and Sylhet divisions, and in some areas of Khulna, Barishal, and Chattogram divisions.

Meanwhile, moderate to heavy rainfall may occur at isolated locations within Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Dhaka, and Sylhet divisions.

The agency also noted that a pronounced low-pressure area situated over southern Chhattisgarh and its neighbouring regions has been moving north-northeastward and weakening, now lying over West Bengal and surrounding areas. 

However, a new low-pressure system may form over the east-central Bay of Bengal and adjacent areas within the next 48 hours.

As the rain sweeps across Dhaka, the streets come alive with the rhythmic patter of raindrops, hurried footsteps, and umbrellas opening and closing in a flurry. 

This sudden downpour has not only disrupted the daily routine of the city’s residents but has also added a poetic, almost cinematic, touch to the opening day of November.