Heavy rain sparks flood concern in tourist hotspots

Tourists planning trips to Bangladesh's popular haor and hill destinations have been advised to exercise caution as heavy rainfall over the next three days could trigger flash floods in several parts of the country.

According to the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC), heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in Sylhet, Mymensingh and Rangpur divisions, raising the risk of short-term flooding in low-lying areas and riverside regions.

The forecast comes at a time when thousands of visitors travel to scenic destinations such as Tanguar Haor in Sunamganj, Hakaluki Haor in Moulvibazar and other monsoon hotspots to enjoy the season's natural beauty.

The FFWC said rivers in Sylhet and Sunamganj districts, including the Surma and Kushiyara, may flow above danger levels over the next three days, potentially inundating adjacent low-lying areas. Temporary flooding is also possible in parts of Netrokona, Mymensingh and Sherpur districts.

In Rangpur division, rivers including the Teesta, Dharla and Dudhkumar are likely to rise further, increasing the risk of short-term flooding in Nilphamari, Lalmonirhat, Kurigram and Rangpur districts.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Rangpur, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions over the next 48 hours due to an active south-west monsoon.

Tour operators and local authorities have advised visitors heading to haor regions and other nature-based destinations to monitor weather updates, avoid travelling during periods of intense rainfall and follow safety instructions issued by local administrations.

While the monsoon season remains one of the most attractive periods for nature tourism in Bangladesh, officials have urged travellers to prioritise safety amid the possibility of flash floods and waterlogging in several tourist areas.