Although the deep depression that formed over the Bay of Bengal has weakened after crossing the Odisha coast, its impact continues to be felt in Cox’s Bazar, where persistent rainfall continued throughout Tuesday.
The district experienced intermittent moderate to heavy rain throughout the day, with the sun remaining hidden since morning. The gloomy weather affected daily life as well as tourism activities.
According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department’s Special Bulletin No. 4, the deep depression over the north-west Bay of Bengal and adjoining West Bengal coast weakened after crossing the West Bengal–Odisha coast. However, adverse weather persists due to a steep pressure gradient over the north Bay of Bengal and the coastal areas of Bangladesh.
The meteorological department has instructed the seaports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra to keep local warning signal No. 3 hoisted.
Assistant Meteorologist Abdul Hannan of the Cox’s Bazar Meteorological Office said that the pressure gradient over the north Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal areas could trigger squally or gusty winds over the seaports and nearby coastal regions.
‘For this reason, local warning signal No. 3 remains in force for the seaports,’ he said.
The persistent rain also reduced the number of tourists at Cox’s Bazar, home to the world’s longest natural sea beach. While weekends and public holidays usually attract large crowds, many tourists stayed away from the beach because of the adverse weather.
Meanwhile, the meteorological department advised fishing boats and trawlers operating in the north Bay of Bengal to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution until further notice.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Hussain Shetu
