21 villages in Patuakhali flooded; water level up in Bhola, Barishal
At least 21 villages of Patuakhali district have been inundated as Cyclone Yaas was centred about 565 kms southwest of Chattogram port, 525 kms southwest of Cox's Bazar, 455 kms south-southwest of Mongla port and 445 kms south-southwest of Payra port this noon.
On the other hand, water level has increased in lowlands of Bhola, Barishal due to strong winds and tides. At least 25,000 people are now facing waterlogging.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. In Patuakhali, tidal water flowing through damaged embankments in Kalapara and Rangabali upazilas flooded several villages. The meteorological department has recorded 3mm of rainfall from 8am to 3pm. During high tide, water of the rivers has flowed 23cm above the danger level, said our local correspondent.
Kalapara upazila's Lalua UP Chairman Mohammad Shawkat Hossain Biswas said, the 8km embankment of the union has been in ruins for a long time. The dam was already broken in several places. Water has entered through the broken parts and flooded at least eight villages.
Rangabali upazila Executive Officer Md Mashfaqur Rahman said that water is entering through embankment due to extreme tidal pressure. Many people inside and outside the embankment area have also become waterlogged. Arrangements are being made to rescue them and bring them to the shelter.
Meanwhile, about 40 shops on Kuakata beach have been damaged due to heavy wind and tidal pressure.
Elsewhere, in the lower part of Bhola in Barishal, water has increased in the low-lying areas due to strong winds and tides. At least 25,000 people are facing waterlogging. However, local people and government officials said that the water will drain quickly.
Relief and Rehabilitation Officer in charge of Bhola Control Room Anisur Rahman said, the district has the capacity to provide shelter to at least 5,23,000 people in 691 centres.
Barishal Divisional Commissioner Saiful Islam Badal said it would be possible to provide shelter to about 20 lakh people at 4,915 shelters in the division.