India: Flooding in Bihar state kills at least 153 as of August 19 /update 6

Event

Flooding continues to impact residents in Bihar state. As of August 19, 153 people have been killed and more than 10 million have been affected. According to officials, 18 districts are flooded and rescue operation are ongoing to restore access to isolated communities. Train networks in some areas continue to be disrupted due to damage to the tracks. Significant disruptions are likely throughout the coming weeks as flood-damaged railway lines are repaired. Travel by roadway has also been disrupted.

Context

Additional rains are forecast for Sunday, August 20, and conditions may worsen. Other parts of northern India have also been suffering from heavy rains and flooding, especially West Bengal and North Bengal.

Heavy rain and flooding is relatively common during the summer monsoon, which usually hits India from July to September. Recent heavy rains have caused significant flooding in at least 20 states, including the western states of Gujarat and Rajasthan and the eastern states of Assam, Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.

Advice

Individuals present in affected states are advised to monitor the situation and anticipate transportation delays. In the event of flooding, keep in mind 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.