Bangladesh: Flooding affects over 900,000 people July 6

Event

Heavy rains in northeastern Bangladesh has caused significant flooding in the Sylhet and Moulvibazar districts in recent days. On Thursday, July 6, the Secretary of the Disaster Management and Relief Ministry reported that 900,000 people have been affected by the flooding, with flash floods forcing thousands of families to evacuate. Local media sources reported on Wednesday, July 5, that some residents have been isolated by the waters, particularly in Moulvibazar. Homes were also damaged in the southern districts of Chakaria Upazila and Cox’s Bazar.

Context

The rains started on Monday, July 3, and are expected to last at least until Saturday, July 8. Torrential rains and subsequent 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 occurs only 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 follow 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.