What is the location of the flooding?
Since early July 2026, torrential monsoon rains, upstream runoff, and landslides have caused severe flooding across southeastern and northeastern Bangladesh (1).
The worst impacts have been reported in Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar, where widespread inundation has damaged homes, roads, crops, and communication networks.
Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?
Flooding has affected seven districts across Bangladesh, with the most severe impacts reported in:
- Bandarban
- Chattogram
- Cox’s Bazar
- Habiganj
- Khagrachhari
- Moulvibazar
- Rangamati
In Chattogram, areas including Anwara, Banshkhali, Chandanaish, Lohagara and Satkania have experienced widespread inundation.
In Cox’s Bazar: Chakaria, Matamuhuri and Pekua remain among the worst-affected areas, with thousands of residents stranded (2).
What is the current containment status of the flooding?
Flood containment remains challenging as heavy rainfall continues in some areas and many communities remain submerged. More than 1 million people have been affected, with over 267,000 families stranded across seven districts (3).
Rescue and relief operations are ongoing, with authorities distributing food, water, and medical supplies while emergency teams use boats to reach isolated communities (4).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
Authorities have opened more than 1,100 shelters across affected districts, with tens of thousands of residents relocated. The government has urged people in flooded and landslide-prone areas to move to safer locations and follow emergency advisories.
Weather authorities continue warning of heavy rainfall and landslide risks in vulnerable areas (5).
How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?
It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.
- Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
- Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
- If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
- Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
- Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
- Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
- Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
- Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
- If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.
Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.
