Heavy rainfall under the influence of the rain belt ‘Probaho’ has caused severe waterlogging in several parts of Dhaka since Tuesday night.
After lightning strikes at midnight, intermittent showers on Wednesday morning left roads submerged in areas such as New Market, Paltan, Rampura, Malibagh, Kakrail, Mirpur’s Kazipara, Kalshi and Motijheel.
Despite the Durga Puja holiday, traffic congestion built up from early morning on major roads. Many CNG-run auto-rickshaws broke down as water entered engines, leaving commuters stranded.
Low-income groups have been hit hardest, with residents facing difficulties in reaching workplaces and daily activities.
According to the Bangladesh met office , the monsoon rain belt ‘Probaho’ entered the country on Tuesday night and is expected to remain active over nearly 80 percent of Bangladesh until 5 October.
This is the 13th and one of the most extensive rain belts of the year. While not uniformly active across all regions, the system is forecast to unleash heavy rainfall in specific areas.
Forecasters that Rangpur, Rajshahi, Khulna, Mymensingh and Barishal divisions will experience the heaviest impact.
Dhaka is likely to face high levels of activity, while Sylhet and Chattogram may see moderate effects. The belt may exit the country through Rangpur on 6 October, with its peak impact between 2 and 4 October.
Warnings have been issued for flash floods and temporary inundation in low-lying areas as rivers in Rangpur and Rajshahi could swell. Coastal regions face risks of rough seas and squally winds at speeds of 40–60 kmph, making fishing and sea travel hazardous.
Thunderstorms are also expected, with severe lightning at the initial stage, later easing to moderate levels. In hilly regions such as Cox’s Bazar, Rangamati, Bandarban and Chattogram, landslides remain a potential threat.
Met office added that skies will stay overcast during ‘Probaho’, with continuous rain keeping weather relatively cooler. The belt is also projected to meet 60–70 percent of irrigation demand across the country.
