Bangladesh: Floods affect more than 8 million people as of September 4 /update 9

Event

Monsoon-related flooding in Bangladesh has killed at least 144 people and affected over 8 million more in the country since the beginning of the monsoon season this summer, according to a report issued by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) on September 1. Some 32 districts are affected by flooding, with nearly two-thirds of the country currently inundated with floodwaters.

More than 600,000 hectares (nearly 1,500,000 acres) of farmland in Bangladesh have been damaged by flooding since the start of the crisis, as well as nearly 2300 schools, and roughly 700,000 homes. Additionally, widespread damages to transportation infrastructure have been reported, and the flooding has exacerbated the threat of waterborne disease in affected areas. Further human casualties and material damages are possible in Bangladesh in coming weeks, as the monsoon season continues through October.

Context

Flooding and landslides are common in Bangladesh during the monsoon season, and cause widespread damage and destruction to homes and infrastructure. The country has a history of catastrophic flooding, and in 1988, over 2000 people were killed during severe floods. Approximately 1000 people were killed during similar floods in 2007.

Monsoon season in Bangladesh usually lasts from April to October.

Advice

Individuals present in regions affected by flooding are advised to adhere to all instructions as issued by local authorities (evacuation orders, etc.). 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.