In response to the imminent threat of flash floods in the north and northeastern regions of Bangladesh, the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) has issued alerts and recommendations for the locals. The FFWC, managed by the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) and the Department of Disaster Management, is closely monitoring the situation and advising precautionary measures.
According to recent reports, water levels in rivers in the northeastern districts are rapidly rising, posing a risk of flash floods in several areas. Vulnerable districts including Netrakona, Sunamganj, Kishoreganj, and Moulvibazar are likely to experience swift inundation as rivers overflow their banks.
Districts along the northeastern border, including Sylhet, Moulvibazar, Sunamganj, and Habiganj, are likely to face significant water inflows, breaching pre-monsoon levels. People are advised to take immediate precautions and get prepared for potential evacuations. The BWDB and relevant authorities have urged people in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow official guidelines for their safety.
Water levels in rivers in the
northeastern districts are
rapidly rising, posing a risk
of flash floods in several areas
On the other hand, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) forecasts Bangladesh is likely to witness heavy to very heavy rainfall with thunderstorms starting from today (Monday). The downpour is likely in the northeast and central parts of the country, including Sylhet and parts of Mymensingh and Dhaka.
Last year, people of these districts especially Sylhet experienced devastating floods as most of the area of the district went under floodwater while many dwelling houses were damaged, causing immense suffering to thousands of people. The authorities concerned must keep all flood shelters prepared.
Several lakh people may be marooned if the downpour and onrush of hilly water hit the regions. Crop land, fisheries, households, business establishments, educational institutions as well as roads may be damaged.
The flood and flash flood destroy the crops especially in seven haor districts- Kishoreganj, Netrakona, Sunamganj, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Sylhet and Brahmanbaria every year. Therefore, the farmers of these areas are the worst sufferers as flash flood pushes them into extreme poverty every year.
Since the beginning of the current summer, panic has gripped the people as they fear flood caused by breach in the risky embankment can leave their region a trail of devastation anytime. We apprehend flood may occur in the low-lying areas if the north and northeastern regions experience onrush of upstream waters coupled with moderate to heavy rainfall.