Bangladesh: Dhaka hit by floods September 11

Event

Heavy rains during the night of September 10-11 prompted floods throughout Dhaka. Areas affected include Motijheel, Paltan, Shantinagar, Malibagh, Tejgaon, Karwan Bazar, Green Road, Indira Road, Sobhanbag, Dhanmondi Road 27, Old Dhaka, Adalatpara, and Mirpur areas. Widespread transportation disruptions have been reported and should be expected to continue, as further rain is forecast in the days to come.

Context

Flooding and landslides are common in Bangladesh during the monsoon season, and cause widespread damage and destruction to homes and infrastructure. The country has a history of catastrophic flooding, and in 1988, over 2000 people were killed during severe floods. Approximately 1000 people were killed during similar floods in 2007.

Advice

Individuals present in regions affected by flooding are advised to adhere to all instructions as issued by local authorities (evacuation orders, etc.). Monitor any relevant developments of the situation via local media, the authorities, and reliable weather reporting outlets. 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.