Launch services beteween Barishal and other parts of Bangladesh resumed on Saturday (November 18, 2023) morning after 24 hours of suspension due to the cyclonic storm Midhili. Abdur Razzaque, river port official of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA), said the operation of launches resumed at 7 am after the affect of cyclone Midhili ended. Barishal Engineering College students say BCL activists beat them up for not attending ‘political programme’ Earlier, BIWTA suspended operations of all types of river vessels from 10:00 am on Friday due to inclement weather caused by the cyclone. Meanwhile, the roads in different parts of Barishal city have been inundated due to the rainfall triggered by the cyclonic. JCD leader, another arrested in Barishal for ‘planning sabotage’ The residents of Battala, Srinath Chatarjee Lane and Bogura Road have been trapped in 2-feet of water since the cyclone hit the country’s coastal areas. Khokon Serniabat takes charge as Barishal mayor

The history of earthquakes is nothing less than terrifying. Whether it’s the 1556 Shaanxi earthquake or something as recent as the 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquake, every major earthquake in the world involves destruction and death. For centuries, scientists, geologists, saints, and seers alike have searched for answers to one inevitable question: Can earthquakes be predicted? Let’s try to find out. Myths about Earthquakes and Predicting Them The phenomenon of earthquakes has long been attributed to mythical and otherworldly happenings. Thousands of years ago, the occurrence of an earthquake not only brought destruction but also paved the way for the fear of the unknown and faith in supernatural power.  The concept of an earthquake is often attributed to Poseidon, the god of the sea in Greek mythology. It is said that Poseidon uses his trident to shake the earth which causes earthquakes. Similar stories are found in Japanese mythology where the giant catfish Namazu causes earthquakes. According to Mongolian mythology, the earth is placed on the back of a giant frog. When the frog stumbles, it causes earthquakes. Read more: 10 Most Earthquake-prone Countries around the World But beyond the myths, there are also some common misconceptions about earthquake predictions. Unlike the myths, these aren’t quite outlandish and are often passed on as hard facts. Some of the common misconceptions regarding earthquake prediction include:  - Animals can predict earthquake - There are always advanced signs of earthquakes - Earthquake is preceded by sudden weather change - Planetary alignment influences earthquake - Increased seismic activity is a precursor for a large earthquake - A series of small earthquakes deters the chance of a large earthquake in a region. Unfortunately, none of these concepts are true. There is no set pattern to earthquakes and neither does it have any identifiable precursors. And that brings us to the all-important question.  Read more: Earthquake Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe

Rain, a wonderful blessing of mother nature, helps plants grow, fills up the rivers, and keeps the world green and liveable. However, transforming into a powerful storm, heavy rain can bring lightning, thundershowers, and strong winds, which can cause damages to lives and properties. So, understanding how to be safe during and after heavy rains is essential. This article provides a significant to-do list, carrying some practical steps. Let's dive into exploring ways to reduce the risks during heavy rainfall. Safety Tips during Heavy Rains and Thundershowers Things to do while Driving Turn on Headlights Rain can make it hard for other drivers to see the car. Turning on headlights increases visibility, reducing the risk of accidents. Don't Attempt to Drive across a Flooded Area During heavy rains, many roads face water logging. The depth of water can be hard to guess. The gathered water may also hide potholes and electrical wires. Therefore, driving through flooded areas can be risky. Read more: Ways to Purify Water during Flood, Disaster, Emergency Situations Reduce Speed Slowly Wet roads can make tires lose contact with the road surface, a phenomenon known as hydroplaning. To avoid this, vehicles should maintain slower speeds during heavy rain. Choose Safe Parking Spots While parking a vehicle, avoid places under power lines, trees, or next to utility poles. These areas can pose risks during heavy rains, like falling branches and debris. Avoid Driving in Heavy Rain Poor visibility during heavy rainfall makes driving risky. If possible, drivers should park the vehicle and wait until the rain has slowed down or stopped before continuing the journey. Read more: Fire Safety in Apartments: Causes and Prevention

In recent years, several earthquakes have devastated different parts of the globe. Earthquakes are caused by sudden movement along tectonic plates within the surface of earth. These movements release energy in the form of seismic waves that cause the earth's surface to shake. These geological events disrupt lives and economies, standing as stark reminders of the need for earthquake preparedness. Let's take a look at the top earthquake-prone countries across the world and understand their vulnerabilities. The World's 10 Most Earthquake-prone Countries Japan Japan occupies a precarious position in the Pacific Ring of Fire, an arc characterized by fault lines and volcanic activity in the Pacific Ocean basin. This is the convergence of four tectonic plates: the Pacific, Philippine, Okhotsk, and Eurasian. The primary reason behind Japan's seismic vulnerability is the collision and subduction of these tectonic slabs. The Pacific Plate is subducting beneath the North American Plate, creating deep ocean trenches and mountain ranges. Read more Earthquake Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe The 2011 Tohoku earthquake, with a magnitude of 9.1, triggered a devastating tsunami, claiming around 19,759 lives. The 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, measuring magnitude 7, caused about 273 fatalities.

The flood situation in Kurigram district deteriorated further as water levels in all the major rivers in the region are rising rapidly. Abdullah Al Mamun, Executive Engineer of Kurigram Water Development Board, said the Dudhkumar river was flowing 42 cm above its danger level while the Dharla river was flowing 22 cm above the red mark. Besides, the water level of Teesta and Brahmaputra rivers is also increasing rapidly. Flood situation may worsen in low-lying areas of Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari: FFWC Due to the rise in the water level of all major rivers, the roads were submerged while flood water also entered houses, causing untold suffering to the dwellers, especially sanitation problems and creating a shortage of drinking water. Flood situation improves in Sunamganj; water levels of rivers fall According to the local administration, they are preparing a list of flood-affected areas, and food assistance has already been provided to 800 families in the area. The worsening flood situation may continue for 3-4 more days and then it may abate, said Engineer Abdullah. Flood situation in Netrokona’s low-lying areas may improve in 24 hours: FFWC

North-Eastern and adjoining upstream region of the country may experience short-term flood due to heavy rainfall in 48 hours since Sunday (July 02, 2023) morning, said a bulletin of Flood Forecasting and Warning Center of the Bangladesh Water Development Board. Some rivers of this region including Surma, Old Surma, Sarigowain, Khowai, Jadukata, Someswari, Bhogai-Kangsha may rise rapidly and cause short-term flood in the adjoining low-lying areas as there is a chance of heavy to very heavy rainfall in the region during the period, it said. The Brahmaputra-Jamuna and the Padma rivers are in steady state, while the Ganges River is in rising trend, which may continue in next 48 hours. Read: Flood crisis grips Kurigram:  thousands trapped, shortage of food-water intensifies All the major rivers in the North-Eastern region of the country are in rising trend. Due to the chance of heavy rainfall in the adjoining upstream, the Teesta, the Dharala and the Dudhkumar rivers in the Northern region may rise rapidly at times in the next 48 hours. Teesta river may cross danger level at Dalia point in the next 24 hours, said FFWC. Read: Flash flood inundates Haor areas in Kishoreganj, ferry services suspended Last year, the residents of Sylhet district experienced a devastating flood as 70 percent of the district went under floodwater while 10,000 dwelling houses were damaged, causing immense sufferings to thousands of people. Read more: Onrush of upstream water, rain trigger flood in Kurigram

The government of Bangladesh has issued some precautionary measures to avoid deaths and injuries by lightning strikes, which have already been declared a national disaster. Lightning strikes kill 250 people on an average every year in the country, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department. Thunderbolts also kill or injure a large number of livestocks. Lightning strikes mostly occur in from April to May till June and most of the deaths occur in flat lands and haor areas, said a handout of PID issued on Tuesday (May 23, 2023). Nine people including a woman died after being struck by lightning in Narsingdi, Chandpur, Kurigram Brahmanbaria districts on Tuesday. According to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, 2,164 people died in lightning strikes in the country from 2011 to 2020. Considering the upward trend, the government in 2016 declared it as a natiinal disaster. Also read: Lightning strike kills 5 in Shariatpur, Barishal To avoid casualties, the government has asked people to take the following precaution: • Thunderbolts usually last 30 to 35 minutes and people have been asked to remain in their respective houses during this period. It is safe to go out wearing rubber shoes in case of any emergency which will protect people from thunderbolts. • People, who are in open paddy fields during thunderbolt, have been asked to sit down on their toes and put fingers in their ears. • People have been asked to take shelter under concrete sheds or buildings as soon as possible and refrain from going over the rooftop or high places during this time. • Children have been asked to refrain from playing outside and stay inside home. Read more: Lightning strike turning into deadliest disaster in Bangladesh: Experts • Avoid places where there are tall trees, electric poles and mobile towers as it is dangerous to take shelter under trees. • People should refrain from catching fish by a boat without a shed. It also asked people to stop fishing in the sea or the river during thunderbolt. • If someone is inside the vehicle, then the body cannot be connected to the metal part of the vehicle. • There is no problem touching any injured people hit by lightning strikes and people should be treated in the same way as those injured by electric shock. Efforts should be taken to restore the breathing and heart rate of the person injured by lightning quickly. It may be possible to save if artificial breathing can be arranged within a few minutes, if there is any delay it may invite death. • Provide Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to activate the heart of injured victims and take the victim to the hospital by ambulance or vehicle as soon as possible. Read more: Thunderstorm Lightning Struck Safety Tips: Stay Prepared.

Bangladesh's State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief Enamur Rahman on Sunday (May 14, 2023) said there is no possibility of tidal surge due to cyclone Mocha. “Low tide started in the morning and Mocha is now progressing with 65 km wind speed and maximum wind speed near the cyclone centre is about 220 km. So there is no possibility of tidal surge,” he said while talking to reporters at the secretariat. The authorities concerned have taken sufficient preparation this time, Enamur said adding that already seven lakh people have taken shelter in the cyclone shelters. Also read: Cyclone Mocha starts crossing Cox’s Bazar with speed of up to 215 kmph: BMD The government has taken all necessary measures at the cyclone shelters and already dry foods, pure drinking water, water purification tablets and cash money have been sent to the shelter homes while the beach area vacated after the announcement of great danger signal, he added. Despite the announcement of great danger signal 10 in Cox’s Bazar, many people were seen taking selfie, said the minister. “Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina asked me over phone to take step to control people on the beach,” he said. Replying to a question about the presence of curious people on the beach, the minister said the law enforcement agencies drove them out and all tourist activities were suspended. Read More: Cyclone Preparedness: Safety measures to follow before, during, and after the disaster

Cyclones are powerful and destructive natural phenomena that can significantly damage life, property, and infrastructure. Being adequately prepared and staying aware of the necessary precautions can greatly minimize the destructive impacts of cyclones on lives and properties.  Unfortunately, unpreparedness and ignorance often exacerbate the effects of these disasters, leading to greater devastation. This article will explore essential cautionary measures before, during, and after a cyclone to save human lives, livestock, and properties. Precautions before Cyclone Remember, each cyclone is unique, and the level of preparedness required may vary. Stay vigilant, follow the advice of local authorities, and prioritize safety.  Read More: Mocha shows no sign of weakening; 190-210 kph winds near centre in BMD's midnight update Taking proactive measures before a cyclone can significantly reduce its impact and protect lives and property. Stay informed: Regularly monitor weather forecasts and warnings from reliable sources to stay updated about the cyclone's progress and potential impact on your area. Develop an emergency plan: Prepare an emergency kit with necessary supplies such as food, water, medication, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. Discuss and practice evacuation routes and procedures with your family. Secure your property: Trim tree branches, secure loose objects, reinforce doors and windows, and inspect the roof for potential vulnerabilities. In addition, consider installing storm shutters or protective coverings. Read More: This is how Cyclone Mocha was named, plus all you need to know. Prepare communication channels: Keep mobile phones charged, have a battery-operated radio, and store important documents in waterproof bags. Share contact information with family and friends and establish a communication plan in case of separation. Evacuation readiness: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and shelters. Plan for the needs of elderly or disabled family members and pets. Follow evacuation orders issued by local authorities promptly. Safety drills: Conduct regular safety drills with your family members to ensure everyone knows what to do during a cyclone. Practice tasks such as shutting off utilities, assembling the emergency kit, and swiftly reaching the designated safe area. Secure important documents: Make digital copies of important documents such as identification cards, passports, insurance policies, and property deeds. Store them securely in the cloud or portable device to facilitate easy access and recovery. Read More: All preparations taken to face cyclone Mocha: PM Hasina. Stock up on supplies: Maintain a sufficient supply of non-perishable food items, dry food, bottled water, and necessary medications for several days. In addition, consider the needs of infants, elderly family members, and individuals with special dietary requirements. Stay hydrated and have snacks: Keep an ample supply of drinking water and non-perishable snacks to sustain you during the cyclone and its aftermath. 

Rescuers recovered more bodies buried under tons of mud from a landslide that crashed onto a hilly village on Indonesia’s remote Natuna islands, bringing the death toll to 21, officials said Thursday. The landslide, triggered by torrential downpours, plunged down surrounding hills on Monday, burying 30 houses in Genting village on a tiny remote island in the Natuna archipelago at the edge of the South China Sea, the National Search and Rescue Agency said in a statement. Authorities have deployed more than 200 rescuers from the search and rescue agency, police and military to search for 33 people still missing who were apparently trapped in houses that were buried under the landslide, which was 4 meters (13 feet) deep, it said. Eight people were pulled out alive with injuries, three of whom are in critical condition, National Disaster Management Agency chief Suharyanto said Thursday. They were rushed late Monday to a hospital in Pontianak city on Borneo island, about 300 kilometers (186 miles) from Genting, but one person died at sea on the way. The search and rescue operation has been hampered by heavy rains around the disaster site. Weather has forced the search effort to be halted several times, while downed communications lines and electricity are also impeding the operation, said Suharyanto who, like many Indonesians, uses a single name. “We are doing our best to find the missing victims,” Suharyanto said, adding that sniffer dogs are also being mobilized in the search. Two helicopters and several vessels carrying rescuers, medical teams and relief supplies, including tents, blankets and food arrived on the island from Jakarta and nearby islands on Wednesday. Monday’s landslide displaced about 1,300 people who were taken to four temporary shelters, Suharyanto said. Authorities feared the death toll could still rise. Seasonal rains and high tides in recent days have caused dozens of landslides and widespread flooding across much of Indonesia, a chain of 17,000 islands where millions of people live in mountainous areas or near fertile flood plains close to rivers. In November 2022, a landslide triggered by a 5.6 magnitude earthquake killed at least 335 people in West Java’s Cianjur city, about a third of them children.