Flash Flood Update and BRAC’s Response

A flash flood affected home in Cumilla district on Wednesday.

Due to a distinct low pressure over the Northwest Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh has been experiencing continuous medium to heavy rainfall since the beginning of August. This prolonged rainfall has triggered flash floods in several districts, including Feni, Noakhali, Cumilla, Khagrachari, Chattogram, Moulvibazar, and Habiganj, with Feni being affected the most. The situation remains critical, with water levels in several rivers flowing above the danger level.

AFFECTED DISTRICTS

• Feni: Extensive flooding in Parshuram, Chagalnaiya, and Fulgazi upazilas. The Muhuri River is flowing 55cm above the danger level. The army has started rescuing stranded people using speed boats.  

• Noakhali: Heavy rainfall has submerged homes, roads, and BRAC offices in multiple upazilas.

• Cumilla: Water levels continue to rise, affecting several BRAC education centers. Six BRAC informal education centers in Cumilla city are submerged.

• Khagrachari: Rising river levels have left 400-500 hundred of families stranded, with landslides further complicating relief efforts.

• Chattogram, Moulvibazar, Habiganj: The flood situation remains severe, with significant challenges in providing aid due to submerged roads and infrastructure.

BRAC’S RESPONSE

BRAC held an emergency meeting with District Coordinators from vulnerable districts and has taken the following actions:

• Activation of District Disaster Management Teams (DDMTs) and Upazila Disaster Management Teams (UDMTs) to coordinate response efforts.

• Ongoing communication with district and upazila administrations to ensure proper coordination and up-to-date situation reports.

• Efforts to provide dry food and emergency support to the most vulnerable communities, particularly those in shelters.

• Exploration of alternative transport options, such as hiring boats from outside affected areas, to ensure aid reaches those in need.

• A rapid assessment of affected areas to evaluate needs and provide timely support. - 

Mafruza Khan Director, Global Resource Mobilization and Partnerships - BRAC