Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecast widespread rain and heavy downpours across the country over the next five days, raising fears that the flood situation could worsen in northern and north-eastern Bangladesh.
According to the latest data released by the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre of the Bangladesh Water Development Board on Friday, rivers at two border points in Sylhet and Sunamganj were already flowing above the danger level.
Flood warnings have also been issued for parts of Kurigram, Gaibandha and Bogura in the north-west and Sylhet, Sunamganj and Netrokona in the north-east.
Water levels at 21 monitoring points in these areas were flowing within 50cm below the danger mark and were being closely monitored.
Widespread rain likely
The BMD said in its Friday forecast that the monsoon was active over southern Bangladesh and moderate over the north Bay.
Light to moderate rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty winds were likely at most places in Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal and Chattogram divisions.
Similar weather was also forecast for many places in Rajshahi, Rangpur, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall may occur at places in Khulna, Barishal and Chattogram divisions.
The rainy conditions are expected to continue from Saturday to Tuesday, with heavy to very heavy rainfall also likely in Sylhet division during the period.
River ports asked to hoist signal No 1
River ports in Dhaka, Rajshahi, Pabna, Faridpur, Jashore, Kushtia, Khulna, Barishal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Comilla, Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar have been advised to hoist cautionary signal No 1.
Temporary gusty or squally winds, accompanied by rain or thundershowers, may affect these areas.
