A mild to moderate heat wave is sweeping across several parts of the country and may expand further, according to a bulletin issued by the Bangladesh Meteorological Department on Friday morning.

The heat wave is currently affecting Rajshahi and Khulna divisions, along with the districts of Tangail, Faridpur, Manikganj and Nilphamari, it said.

The highest temperature of 38.5°C was recorded in Chuadanga on Thursday.

Meanwhile, rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty winds and lightning are likely at one or two places over Sylhet division in the 24 hours commencing at 9am on Friday.

Elsewhere, the weather is expected to remain mainly dry with partly cloudy skies at times. Day and night temperatures may rise slightly across the country.

The bulletin added that a trough of low pressure lies over West Bengal and adjoining areas, while a seasonal low lies over the South Bay.