Bangladesh: Heavy rains cause flooding in Chittagong division April 23

Event

Heavy rains in the Chittagong division (eastern Bangladesh) over the past few days have caused flash floods across the region. As of early morning Monday, April 23 (local time), several parts of the overcrowded Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar district have flooded due to the first pre-monsoon rains of the season. Further thunderstorms have been forecast from Thursday, April 26, through Monday, April 30. Humanitarian officials are concerned that as the country enters monsoon season (which lasts from June to October), the conditions in refugee camps will worsen considerably.  

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, to avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments. 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. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tends to rise after periods of heavy rains.