Bangladesh: Thunderstorms and torrential monsoon rains leave 29 dead as of July 15 /update 1

Event

As of Monday, July 15, thunderstorms and torrential monsoon rains in Bangladesh are affecting at least 100,000 people and have left at least 29 people dead since the rainfall began in earnest on Tuesday, July 9. Emergency response efforts are ongoing and expected to continue over the coming days.

Significant disruptions to transportation services, including blocked or flooded roads, and power outages are to be anticipated throughout Bangladesh as emergency efforts continue. Further flooding and associated damages are possible in the coming hours and days. More heavy rainfall is likely in Bangladesh over the coming days and weeks as the monsoon season is expected to continue through September.

Advice

Individuals in Bangladesh are advised to keep abreast of local weather forecasts, anticipate flooding and landslides along with transportation, business, electricity, and telecommunications disruptions, and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities. Be advised 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 food discarded.