Prolonged heavy to very heavy rainfall has significantly increased the likelihood of flooding across five districts, with early inundation already affecting low-lying areas of Moulvibazar and Netrokona. The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre, a specialised unit of the Bangladesh Water Development Board, has warned that Sylhet, Habiganj, and Sunamganj are also at high risk as river levels continue to rise.
Officials confirmed on Wednesday that sustained rainfall has caused a rapid increase in water levels across several river basins, particularly in the north-eastern region. Sub-Divisional Engineer Partha Pratim Barua stated that floodwaters have already entered vulnerable lowlands in Moulvibazar and Netrokona. He cautioned that similar conditions could soon develop in neighbouring districts if the current weather pattern persists.
The Meteorological Department had earlier forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across all eight divisions over a 96-hour period. Rainfall intensified from Tuesday night and has continued intermittently across various parts of the country, including the capital.
Rainfall data from the past 24 hours illustrate the severity of the situation:
| Location | Recorded Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|
| Nikli, Kishoreganj | 161 |
| Bhola | 151 |
| Feni | 148 |
Meteorologist Muhammad Abul Kalam Mallick explained that rainfall is expected to occur intermittently across different regions rather than continuously in a single location. However, the overall weather pattern suggests that wet conditions may persist until at least 4 May.
Hydrological observations indicate that four rivers—the Bhugai-Kangsha, Manu, Someshwari, and Mogra—are currently flowing above their designated danger levels. With the exception of the Manu River, the others pass through Netrokona district, making the area particularly vulnerable. Additionally, water levels in the Surma and Kushiyara rivers have risen by more than one to one and a half metres, increasing the risk of overflow into surrounding floodplains.
Experts attribute the rapid rise in water levels to the limited capacity of these river systems, which respond quickly to intense rainfall. When precipitation is heavy, water accumulates rapidly and often exceeds river channel capacity within a short period.
Authorities have stated that any improvement in the flood situation will depend on a substantial reduction in rainfall. Until then, monitoring efforts will continue, and residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert and prepared for possible further flooding.