Flood warning issued for Rangpur, Sylhet regions

The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre has warned that heavy rainfall over the next several days may cause short-term flooding in parts of northern and north-eastern Bangladesh, particularly in Rangpur and Sylhet divisions.

In its latest weekly water-level outlook, the FFWC said all major rivers are currently flowing below their danger levels. However, water levels in several rivers may rise due to heavy rainfall in Bangladesh and upstream areas of India.

Low-lying areas along the Teesta, Dharla and Dudhkumar rivers in Rangpur, Nilphamari, Lalmonirhat and Kurigram may face temporary flooding within the next seven days.

The FFWC also warned that low-lying areas near the Surma and Kushiyara rivers in Sylhet and Sunamganj may experience short-term flooding. Parts of Netrokona, Mymensingh and Sherpur near the Bhugai, Kangsha and Someshwari rivers may also see temporary inundation.

According to the forecast, water levels in the Brahmaputra-Jamuna and Ganges-Padma river systems may rise but are likely to remain below danger levels. Rivers in Chattogram division may also register a general rise, with occasional rapid increases.

The outlook, prepared using data from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, the India Meteorological Department and global weather agencies, said heavy rainfall is likely between June 21 and June 28 in Rangpur, Sylhet and Mymensingh divisions, as well as upstream areas of West Bengal, Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya.

The FFWC said the affected regions recorded above-normal rainfall over the past week and may continue to receive higher-than-normal rainfall until July 2. Rainfall may reach 350mm to 400mm in some areas.

The forecast, signed by FFWC Executive Engineer Sardar Uday Raihan, advised residents of vulnerable low-lying areas to remain alert.