Bangladesh, India: Flooding and associated disruptions ongoing across parts of Mymensingh Division, Bangladesh, and Meghalaya State, India, as of Oct. 7

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of Mymensingh Division in northern Bangladesh and Meghalaya State in northeastern India as of Oct. 7. Heavy rainfall in recent days associated with the current monsoon season has caused rising river levels and widespread flooding in the region. Authorities in Mymensingh Division have reported at least eight flood-related fatalities and more than 200,000 people affected, with Sherpur District the worst affected area. Flooding has been reported in more than 200 villages and many homes have been inundated. Many roads and bridges have been blocked by flooding and landslides, leaving several communities cut off. Floodwaters are generally expected to recede from Oct. 7; however, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecast further light-to-moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds over Mymensingh Division over the coming days and additional downpours could exacerbate the flood situation.

Authorities in Meghalaya State have reported at least 15 fatalities in South Garo Hills District area due to flash flooding and landslides triggered by recent heavy rainfall, with some of the worst damage occurring in the Gasuapara area. Three fatalities have also been reported amid severe flooding in the Dalu area of West Garo Hills District. Authorities are also responding to flooding and associated disruptions across parts of East, North, and South-West Garo Hills districts. As of Oct. 7, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of further light-to-moderate rainfall, with isolated heavier downpours, across the regions over the coming days. The IMD has issued yellow rainfall warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across Meghalaya State Oct. 7-11.

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.