Seven Rivers Swell Above Danger Mark, Flood Fears Rise

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Heavy rainfall across Bangladesh’s northeast has pushed water levels in several rivers above the danger mark, raising fresh concerns about possible flooding in low-lying areas.

According to the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre, at least seven rivers were flowing above danger levels as of Monday morning. The rising water has been driven by steady rainfall over the past 24 hours, with several districts recording moderate to heavy showers.

Rainfall data shows that parts of Netrokona and Habiganj each received around 74 millimetres of rain, while areas in Chandpur recorded about 61 millimetres. This persistent downpour has added pressure to the river systems that flow through the haor region, where even a small increase in water level can quickly lead to inundation.

In the haor belt, water levels at eight monitoring stations across three districts have already crossed pre-monsoon danger thresholds. The Naljur River in Sunamganj is flowing about 40 centimetres above the danger level at Jagannathpur point. In Netrokona, the Dhanu-Baulai River has risen 8 centimetres above the limit at Jariajanjail, while the Someswari River at Kalmakanda is 50 centimetres above the threshold.

Several other rivers, including the Bhugai-Kongsho, Mogra, Kalni and Sutang, are also running above safe levels, indicating a broader build-up of water across the region. Officials say the overall trend remains upward, though the rise is gradual for now, increasing by up to 1 centimetre per hour in some areas.

Experts warn that the situation could worsen if rainfall continues over the next few days. Weather forecasts suggest that light to moderate rain, accompanied by gusty winds and occasional thunderstorms, is likely to persist across all divisions. In some places, rainfall could intensify, adding further strain on already swollen rivers.

For communities in the northeast, particularly in the haor areas, the timing is critical. These regions are highly vulnerable to sudden water intrusion, and early flooding can disrupt livelihoods, damage crops and affect transport links.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and have urged local administrations to stay prepared. If the current weather pattern continues, there is a growing risk of short-term flooding in low-lying areas, especially in parts of Sunamganj, Netrokona and Habiganj.

While the water levels are rising slowly, officials caution that conditions can change quickly. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the situation stabilises or turns into a wider flood threat for the northeast.