Flash Flood Threat in Lalmonirhat as Teesta River Surges

Online Desk : The Teesta River rose above the danger level in Lalmonirhat on Wednesday as heavy rainfall and upstream runoff continued to swell rivers across northern Bangladesh, heightening concerns over possible flash floods within the next 48 hours.

According to the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), the Teesta was flowing one centimetre above the danger mark at the Dalia point of the Teesta Barrage as of 3 pm.

BWDB data showed the river’s water level at Dalia reached 52.21 metres, exceeding the danger level of 52.15 metres. As the river continued to rise, water began entering nearby low-lying areas.

Meanwhile, the Dharla River was flowing at 29.48 metres at the Shimulbari point, remaining 1.39 metres below its danger level of 30.87 metres.

Residents living along the Teesta said floodwater had already started inundating homesteads and low-lying land. However, they noted that the risk of major agricultural damage remained limited as no significant seasonal crops are currently being cultivated in the affected areas.

The BWDB warned that continued upstream inflow coupled with heavy rainfall could push river water levels even higher across the northern region, potentially triggering short-term flooding over the next two days.

Sunil Kumar, executive engineer of the Lalmonirhat Water Development Board, said persistent rainfall and upstream runoff were responsible for the rising water levels.

He said authorities were monitoring the situation around the clock and had taken necessary preparations to respond to any possible flooding.