Flooding is the most prevalent and destructive natural disasters, rendering countries like Bangladesh particularly susceptible. Riverine islands, also known as chars, are low-lying landforms in Bangladesh that are particularly vulnerable to flooding due to their proximity to the river system. This study aims to assess the socio-economic impacts of the 2017 flood disaster on riverine island dwellers, their adaptation strategies, as well as the challenges they face in acclimatizing. To achieve this, we used a mixed-method approach that incorporates both qualitative and quantitative data, Information was collected through interviews and a structured questionnaire from 289 households on riverine islands in the Kurigram district of Bangladesh. The study demonstrates that all households encountered significant challenges due to climate-induced extreme flood events in 2017. It highlights various declines in their standard of living, with 61.94% of respondents reporting substantial difficulties related to education, 56.75% encountering significant challenges in maintaining social connections, and 61.94% facing obstacles in accessing government support during the disaster. Furthermore, the findings indicate that 34.60% of respondents experienced severe difficulties concerning health, 43.94% reported significant issues related to housing, and 54.33% encountered substantial challenges in crop production. In response to such disasters, the riverine dwellers adapted several adaptation strategies, including three particular initiatives: before, during, and after the incident. Inadequate education facilities and useful information on natural disasters, disrupted communication, and a lack of financial support are still significant hindrances to the sustainability of adaptation.