Cloud Formations Across Seasons in Bangladesh

From the bustling streets of Dhaka to the serene landscapes of Chittagong, each region tells its own story through the dance of clouds above, revealing the nuances of nature’s rhythm throughout the year. I have been fortunate enough to explore and observe the ever-changing canvas that unfolds above us in both cities, painting a picture of nature’s next episode to be followed.

In Chittagong, nestled along the southeastern coast, the ebb and flow of the seasons paint a different picture in the sky above. Here, the proximity to the Bay of Bengal brings its own set of atmospheric dynamics, shaping the cloud formations that grace the horizon.During Grismo (summer), the coastal city experiences the full force of the summer heat, with cirrus clouds drifting lazily overhead. People’s spirit put to the test under the harsh heat of the sun as they lust for rain and peace. hence, nature unfolds a mighty spectacle, the sudden ‘Kalboishakhi’, a violent yet most beautiful pre-monsoon storm.

In the blink of an eye, the skies and the surroundings blacken and lightning streaks across the horizon like celestial fireworks within the towering clouds. The air fills with the sound of raindrops accompanied by hailstorms dancing on rooftops and streets, refreshing everything it touches. It’s as if nature itself is putting on a show, a reminder of its raw power and beauty. The word for Kalboishakhi in English is Northwester, which gets its name from the first season of the Bangla calendar- Boishakh. Normally, the Kalboishakhi bids farewell, just as quickly as it came leaving behind a world washed clean and renewed. And in its wake, The country emerges, sparkling under the sun once more, as if the storm never happened.

As the Barsha (monsoon) season arrives, the sky undergoes a dramatic transformation. Cumulonimbus clouds loom large on the horizon, their towering forms casting great shadows over the bustling port city. The soaking rains that accompany these thunderclouds bring both blessings and challenges to the residents of Chittagong, sustaining the region’s lush greenery while also posing risks of flooding and landslides. As the seasons shift once more, the arrival of Sharat (autumn) brings a sense of relief to Chittagong. Altostratus clouds glide gracefully across the sky, their soft hues painting a serene backdrop against the backdrop of the Bay of Bengal. These mid-level clouds, with their gentle presence, offer a welcome reprieve from the intensity of the monsoon season, allowing residents to bask in the beauty of nature’s changing tapestry. During Hemanto, the late autumn season, the sky above Chittagong undergoes a subtle transformation. Cirrus clouds still grace the horizon, their wispy tendrils dancing in the cool breeze. As Sheet, the winter season, descends upon Chittagong, the sky takes on a crisp, clear quality. Cumulus clouds are replaced by the occasional wisps of cirrostratus clouds that stretch across the azure expanse. These thin, veil-like clouds add a touch of elegance to the winter sky, casting a delicate sheen over the coastal landscape below. With the arrival of Bashonto (spring), Chittagong awakens to a symphony of color and life. Cumulus clouds return with renewed vigor, their puffy forms dotting the sky like cotton balls against a backdrop of azure blue. As nature bursts into bloom, the clouds above mirror the vibrancy of the landscape below.

Meanwhile in Dhaka, the capital, the cloud formations tend to exhibit a bit more varied and dynamic nature compared to Chittagong.During Barsha, Dhaka experiences frequent rainfall, often accompanied by towering cumulonimbus clouds, lesser in intensity than that of Chittagong. As the seasons transition to Sharat, Dhaka sees a shift towards stratus clouds, creating a blanket of gray over the urban sprawl. These low-lying clouds bring overcast skies and light precipitation, contrasting with Chittagong’s clearer skies during this time.

This intricate dance of clouds that shapes our lives and landscapes throughout the year. From the streets of Dhaka to the coastal charms of Chittagong, the sky above serves as a timeless reminder of the cyclical nature of existence, weaving a tapestry of beauty and wonder for all who care to look up and marvel.