Bangladesh (MNN) — Each year, monsoon season brings widespread flooding and displacement to South Asia. So far, torrential rains and mudslides killed 200 people and displaced four million in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Meteorologists say the world’s most populated region will see even more rain this week.
Monsoon season is more complicated this year because people are fighting water-borne diseases and COVID-19. See our complete coronavirus coverage here.
In Bangladesh, pandemic restrictions were a blessing in disguise.
(Photo courtesy of Compassion International)
“Before the floods started, Compassion was already providing food packages due to COVID-19 pandemic [lockdowns],” Compassion International’s Prince Saha says.
As a result, “the families are safe. They are surviving, and there has been no severe effect of the floods on them since they have food at their home.”
Flooding compounds COVID misery
Compassion International partners with local churches throughout Bangladesh to care for kids in poverty. When COVID-19 cases began appearing this spring, believers worked quickly to protect vulnerable families while still meeting their daily needs. More about Compassion’s COVID-19 response here.
“During this COVID-19 situation, people have been jobless, and they need support,” Saha notes.
Seasonal monsoon flooding adds another layer of misery and challenge. Only two of 174 Compassion projects have been affected so far, but that could quickly change as flooding spreads.
“We are monitoring the flood, and if it gets worse, then we may need additional support,” Saha says.
“There can be food crises, outbreaks of water-borne diseases; and, children are [especially] at risk when there is water all around.”
Click here to send help through Compassion International’s Disaster Response Fund. Most importantly, pray. “Please pray to the Lord for His hand of safety and guidance upon all flood victims. Especially for the children, since they are the most vulnerable,” Saha requests.
“Pray for the first responders and volunteers who are working [to help] the flood victims.”
Header image depicts Moyna, a 19-year-old Bangladeshi student who wants to become a doctor. Photo courtesy of Compassion International.