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04 Sep 2024 | 09:12 AM UTC

Bangladesh: Disruptions due to flooding continue across eastern parts of the country as of Sept. 4 /update 1

Flood-related disruptions continue across eastern Bangladesh as of Sept. 4. Dozens of fatalities reported; hundreds of thousands displaced.

Warning

Flood-related disruptions continue to affect parts of eastern Bangladesh as of Sept. 4. Heavy downpours since Aug. 20 have triggered widespread flooding affecting eleven districts across Chittagong and Sylhet Divisions. Although the flood situation has generally begun to improve in most affected areas over recent days, related disruptions continue to impact the region. As of Sept. 4, authorities have reported 71 flood-related fatalities across the affected areas. Nearly 300,000 are still being temporarily accommodated in more than 3,600 shelters established across the region. Around 582,000 people remain stranded due to the flooding. Many homes, roads, and other infrastructure have been damaged by the floods. Widespread light-to-moderate rainfall with occasional heavy downpours is forecast across the affected area over the coming days amid the ongoing monsoon season. Additional downpours could exacerbate the ongoing flood situation and hamper response and recovery efforts.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are likely where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.

Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.

Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through flood-affected areas. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers.

Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming days. Review contingency plans and be prepared to move quickly to shelters if evacuation orders are issued. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.