Short-term flood risk looms over five northern regions

Bangla Press Desk:   Fresh concerns of short-term flooding have emerged in five northern districts of Bangladesh due to upstream inflows and persistent rainfall.

The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) of the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) issued the forecast on Saturday. 

According to the forecast, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely over the next 24 to 48 hours in Sylhet, Rangpur, and Mymensingh divisions, as well as the adjoining Indian states of Meghalaya, Assam, and West Bengal. 

As a result, water levels in rivers across northern Bangladesh may rise rapidly, while the risk of landslides in hilly areas could also increase.

During the next 24 to 48 hours, water levels of the Teesta, Dharla, and Dudhkumar rivers in Nilphamari, Lalmonirhat, Rangpur, Kurigram, and Gaibandha districts may rise and exceed their respective danger levels at some locations, causing short-term flooding in adjacent low-lying areas, the FFWC said.

Rakibul Hasan, executive engineer of the BWDB in Kurigram, said, "We have a forecast of short-term flooding in the district's low-lying areas. We are monitoring the situation round the clock. Repair work is also underway at vulnerable sections of flood control embankments."