Severe heat and frequent load shedding have disrupted daily life in Saidpur, Nilphamari with hospitals overwhelmed by patients suffering from respiratory problems, pneumonia and skin diseases.
The scorching heat has kept many residents indoors unless absolutely necessary, hitting daily wage workers hardest as they struggle to work amid rising prices. Those still going out rely on cold drinks and juices to cope, seeking shade under trees or buildings whenever possible.
On Sunday, Saidpur's 100-bed hospital was found operating at nearly three times capacity with around 250 patients being treated on the floor, mostly children and elderly people suffering from respiratory issues, pneumonia and diarrhea.
Resident Medical Officer Dr. Nazmul Huda said 263 patients were admitted that day. "This is the first time in my career I've seen such a large number of patients" he said, adding that skin conditions like scabies and fungal infections have also surged with over 300 outpatients reporting such symptoms daily.
While no confirmed measles cases have been found, two patients, including an elderly person are showing suspicious symptoms, he said. Dr. Huda advised residents to avoid unnecessary outings, street food and drinks, stay hydrated with water and saline and maintain cleanliness.
Lokman Hakim of the Saidpur Airport meteorological office reported Sunday's maximum temperature at 35°C with 60% humidity also noting that high humidity is worsening discomfort.
Regarding load shedding, NESCO Executive Engineer Alimul Islam said Saidpur faces an energy shortfall like the rest of the country. The area's 61,000 metered customers require 40 megawatts but only 21 megawatts are being supplied also causing frequent outages.
