Bangladesh’s Meteorological Department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across five districts in the Chattogram Division, warning that persistent downpours could also trigger landslides in hilly areas.
The warning was issued on Tuesday (29 September) and covers a 48-hour period from 6pm that evening. The districts named in the alert are Cox’s Bazar, Bandarban, Rangamati, Khagrachhari and Chattogram.
According to the Meteorological Department, a land depression positioned over Myanmar and the adjoining north-eastern Bay of Bengal is influencing the weather pattern. Under its influence, rainfall is expected to increase across the five districts, with some areas potentially receiving very heavy rain.
The forecast indicates that rainfall in some locations could range between 44 and 88 millimetres during the period. Certain areas may receive more than 88mm, raising concerns about temporary disruption to normal activities.
The warning is particularly significant for the hilly parts of the affected districts. Heavy and prolonged rainfall can saturate soil on slopes, increasing the possibility of landslides in vulnerable locations. The Meteorological Department has therefore urged people living in or travelling through hilly areas to remain alert during the period.
Temporary waterlogging is also possible in some hilly locations as a result of the heavy rainfall. Such conditions can affect roads and other local transport routes, particularly where rainwater accumulates quickly in low-lying areas.
The five districts include extensive hill ranges and settlements, with Bandarban, Rangamati and Khagrachhari containing large areas of rugged terrain. Parts of Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar also have hilly settlements where heavy rainfall can create additional risks. Residents in exposed locations may therefore need to monitor weather developments closely.
Travel through hilly areas could also become more difficult during periods of intense rain. Reduced visibility, water accumulation and unstable soil can create hazards on roads and slopes. People travelling through areas considered vulnerable to landslides have been advised to exercise particular caution.
The Meteorological Department’s warning comes as the weather system associated with the land depression continues to influence the region. The possibility of rainfall exceeding 88mm in some places means that conditions could vary considerably between districts and even between nearby areas.
Residents are therefore being urged not to ignore signs of changing ground conditions in hilly locations. Those living near slopes or travelling through vulnerable areas should remain attentive to official weather warnings and take appropriate precautions if conditions deteriorate.
The 48-hour alert specifically highlights two concerns — heavy to very heavy rainfall and the associated risk of landslides. Authorities and residents in Cox’s Bazar, Bandarban, Rangamati, Khagrachhari and Chattogram have consequently been advised to remain cautious throughout the forecast period.
