Bangladesh: Deadly landslide in Cox’s Bazar (south) July 25 /update 2

Event

At least five people were killed and five others injured in a rain-induced landslide in Cox’s Bazar in southern Bangladesh on Tuesday, July 25. Continued rain is forecast in the coming days in Rangpur, Rajshahi,  Mymensingh, Dhaka, Khulna, Barisal, Chittagong, and Sylhet.

A cautionary “signal three” warning is still in effect in the southern seaports of Chittagong, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra, in place since July 19 when a depression in the Bay of Bengal resulted in heavy winds.

Context

A month of non-stop heavy rain has triggered flash floods and landslides across parts of South Asia, including Bangladesh, that have impacted over a million people and caused widespread damage and destruction to homes and infrastructure.

Torrential rains, flooding, and landslides affect Bangladesh on a yearly basis during the rainy season that spans from April to October. Northern and central districts were affected by massive flooding throughout July and August 2016, with more than 1.5 million people affected across 16 central and southern districts; at least 60 people were killed by flood waters, while hundreds of thousands of residents were evacuated.

Floodwaters pose an increased health threat as they facilitate the spread of mosquito- and water-borne diseases. There is a risk of contracting malaria throughout the year in Bangladesh but transmission only occurs in rural areas. Dengue fever is endemic and is also transmitted through mosquito bites, including in urban areas. Gastric water-borne diseases are very common; epidemics usually occur during the rainy season.

Advice

Individuals present in regions affected by flooding are advised to adhere to all instructions as issued by local authorities. Monitor any relevant developments of the situation via local media, the authorities, and reliable weather reporting outlets. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.

Due to the possible presence of mosquito-borne diseases, individuals are advised to take preventive measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites (use insect repellent, wear covering clothing, sleep in screened-in or air conditioned rooms) and destroy possible mosquito breeding grounds, which include masses of garbage and small pockets of stagnant water, e.g. water that has collected in cans, bottles, tires, vases, flower pots, clogged gutters, air conditioners, and water dishes for pets.

To minimize your risk of contracting water-borne diseases, practice good hygiene, consume only treated or bottled water, and avoid foods that cannot be thoroughly cooked or disinfected.