Category: Natural Disasters

Recent floods in Jamalpur district caused significant crop damage, estimated at Tk 140 crore. The Department of Agricultural Extension reports that flooding from July 3-15 submerged 11,524 hectares of land, completely destroying crops on 6,990 hectares and partially damaging 4,517 hectares. Various crops were affected, resulting in a loss of 2,739 tonnes. The disaster impacted 63,417 farmers. As floodwaters recede, farmers are now planting T-Aman seeds, with the DAE providing guidance to help recover losses. Daily Star

Greece experienced its hottest June since 1960 in 2024, with temperatures reaching 35°C and even 40°C during a mid-month heatwave. The country’s average temperature has risen by 2.5°C since 1960. The extreme heat, along with strong winds and drought, has led to a significant increase in wildfires, with 1,281 fires reported in June 2024 compared to 533 in June 2023. Scientists attribute these changes to climate change. Source AFP

Hurricane Beryl has strengthened to a Category 5 storm, becoming the earliest such storm on record in the Atlantic. With winds up to 160 mph, it has caused significant damage in the Caribbean, particularly in Grenada’s Carriacou Island. The storm is expected to hit Jamaica next. This unusually powerful early-season hurricane has prompted concerns about an “extraordinary” hurricane season ahead, potentially linked to climate change and warm Atlantic temperatures. AFP

UNICEF reports that over 772,000 children are among the 2 million people affected by flash floods in northeastern Bangladesh. The situation is expected to worsen in the next 24-48 hours. UNICEF has distributed safe water to 100,000 people and 3,000 water containers. Over 810 schools are flooded, with 500 used as shelters. Nearly 140 community clinics are affected. UNICEF is providing support to mitigate violence and help children overcome trauma in this crisis. UNB