Flood Situation in Noakhali Improves as Water Recedes

Flood waters have begun to recede in eight upazilas and seven municipalities of Noakhali, Bangladesh, bringing some relief to the affected region. However, many low-lying areas remain flooded, with water levels still reaching knee to waist height. The district is facing a shortage of food and clean water, with nearly 2 million people still stranded by the floods. The situation has improved slightly following two days without rain and the appearance of sunshine. While water levels have decreased by a foot in some higher areas, many residents in lower areas remain trapped. The flood damage is evident in areas where water has receded, with large potholes appearing on roads and some roads completely washed away. The district administration reports having 593 metric tons of rice in stock for flood victims, but lacks other essential supplies such as cash, dry food, baby food, and fodder. Over 300,000 people are currently seeking refuge in 1,303 shelters across the district. The number of diarrhea and snakebite cases has increased, with about 300 patients admitted to hospitals in Noakhali, including the General Hospital and the eight upazila health complexes.