A tornado struck Kashiani upazila of Gopalganj around 3:30pm on Thursday, causing damage to around 25 business establishments, temples, trees, and electric poles.
No casualties were reported in the incident.
Sirajul Islam (Harun) Kazi, joint general secretary of Bhatiapara Bazar Association, reported that the tornado hit the area at around 3:30pm. About 20-25 shops and a temple in the Tandba market were destroyed within seconds. Goods in the shops were extensively damaged, signboards were blown away, and numerous trees were uprooted.
The tornado also caused the breakage of electric poles, leading to a halt in power supply. Traders incurred significant losses due to the destruction.
Hotelier Monir Fakir, 50, said: "The sky turned black, and strong winds swept through. In an instant, the rice in my shop was blown away. I had to run in fear, finding shelter in the neighbouring shop."
Kashiani Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mehdi Hasan confirmed the incident, adding: "While the tin roofs of several business establishments were blown away, fortunately, no casualties were reported. However, a comprehensive assessment of the damage is yet to be conducted."