Five rivers exceed danger levels in Bangladesh as floods worsen

Floodwaters continue to rise in Bangladesh, with five major rivers exceeding danger levels at various monitoring stations. The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) has issued a special bulletin, indicating that while flood situations in Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, and Bandarban may slowly improve over the next 24 hours, a fresh wave of short-term flooding is anticipated in low-lying areas of 10 other districts within one to three days.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for the next 24 to 48 hours across Chattogram, Sylhet, Rangpur, and Mymensingh divisions, as well as in adjoining Indian catchments. This is expected to exacerbate the existing flood conditions, particularly in the northeastern regions. The water levels of the Surma and Kushiyara rivers have already risen and are projected to continue their ascent over the next two days, potentially leading to a deterioration of the flood situation in Sylhet and Sunamganj.

“

Due to the ongoing heavy rainfall, the improvement of the flood situation in Chattogram, Bandarban, and Cox's Bazar districts will be slow over the next 24 hours. However, it will improve significantly after that period.

Key rivers like the Sangu, Kushiyara, Matamuhuri, Monu, and Someshwari are reported to be flowing above danger levels at multiple stations. For instance, the Sangu river is significantly above danger levels at Bandarban and Dohazari. While some rivers such as the Manu, Dhalai, and Khowai are showing a slow decline, the overall outlook remains concerning for many low-lying areas. The FFWC engineer noted that while improvement will be slow in some areas, it is expected to become significant after the initial 24-hour period, with potential improvements in the newly affected areas after three days.

“

On the other hand, a fresh short-term flood situation may arise in 10 districts within the next one to three days. But the flood situation in these areas may also improve after three days.