A well-marked low over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas has intensified into a depression, prompting the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) to issue local cautionary signal No. 3 for all maritime ports.
As of 6:00 AM on Thursday, the depression was located about 405 kilometers west-southwest of Chattogram, 395 kilometers west-southwest of Cox’s Bazar, 230 kilometers southwest of Mongla, and 245 kilometers southwest of Payra.
According to a special bulletin from the Met Office, the depression is likely to move further northward and intensify. Under its influence, squally weather may affect the North Bay, coastal regions of Bangladesh, and the maritime ports.
Within 44 kilometers of the depression center, maximum sustained wind speeds are around 40 kilometers per hour, increasing to 50 kilometers per hour in gusts. As a result, sea conditions remain rough near the center.
Authorities have advised the ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra to hoist local cautionary signal No. 3. All fishing boats and trawlers over the North Bay have been urged to take immediate shelter and remain there until further notice.
Abdul Hannan, Assistant Meteorologist at the Cox’s Bazar Weather Office, reported that 91 millimeters of rainfall were recorded in the district over the past 24 hours (from 9:00 AM Wednesday to 9:00 AM Thursday). Heavy to hefty rainfall is expected today and tomorrow, with light to moderate rain likely to continue for another one to two days.
In light of the evolving weather conditions, coastal residents and fishing communities are advised to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
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