Tourist arrivals are increasing in Cox’s Bazar as holidaymakers gather at the beach, with sunny and mostly dry weather forecast for much of the coming week.
The beach at Kolatoli, Laboni and Sugandha points has become increasingly busy, with tourists walking along the shore, taking photographs and bathing in the sea. Tourist numbers are expected to rise further around the weekly holidays.
According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, the weather in Cox’s Bazar is expected to remain mostly dry from November 6 to 8. Daytime temperatures may remain between 32°C and 33°C during the period.
Some areas may see light rain on Monday, November 9, when temperatures could reach 33°C. On Tuesday, November 10, the temperature may fall to around 29°C, with a chance of isolated light rain.
The forecast also says one or two places in the Chattogram division may experience rain or thundershowers on November 8, while the rest of the country is likely to remain mainly dry.
The weather may therefore remain favourable for sightseeing and beach activities. However, sunny weather does not necessarily mean that sea bathing is safe. Waves, underwater depressions, channels and sudden currents can pose risks to tourists.
Tides are also expected to vary throughout the week. On Friday, November 6, low tide is expected at 2:40am, followed by high tide at 8:23am, low tide again at 3:09pm and high tide at 8:51pm. On Saturday, low tide may occur at 3:35am, high tide at 9:10am, low tide at 3:56pm, and high tide at 9:33pm. On Sunday, low tide is expected at 4:21am, high tide at 9:50am, low tide at 4:37pm, and high tide at 10:10pm.
On Monday, November 9, low tide may occur at 5:03am, high tide at 10:26am, low tide at 5:15pm, and high tide at 10:45pm. On Tuesday, low tide is expected at 5:41am, high tide at 11:00am, low tide at 5:50pm, and high tide at 11:18pm. On Wednesday, low tide may occur at 6:16am, high tide at 11:33am, low tide at 6:23pm, and high tide at 11:51pm. On Thursday, November 12, low tide is expected at 6:49am, high tide at 12:05pm, and low tide again at 6:54pm.
Mohammad Osman Gani, Sea Safe’s supervisor and senior lifeguard, urged tourists to check sea conditions before entering the water.
“Tourists should enter the sea only after considering the conditions. If a red flag is displayed on the beach, they should be especially cautious. To avoid risks, tourists should bathe only in designated areas and follow lifeguards’ instructions,” he said.
Red and red-yellow flags are displayed at different points of the beach to indicate safe bathing areas and potentially dangerous conditions. Ignoring these signals can increase the risk of accidents.
Lifeguards also advised parents to remain particularly vigilant when taking children into the sea.
According to those concerned, Cox’s Bazar’s weather may remain relatively comfortable for tourists over the coming week. However, tourists should drink enough water while on the beach and take extra care of children and elderly people during hot, sunny conditions.
Tide times may vary slightly depending on weather conditions and location. Tourists are advised to follow lifeguards’ instructions and check the sea conditions before entering the water.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Cox’s Bazar Life Photo
