A deep depression in the south-western Bay of Bengal near the Sri Lankan coast has intensified into Cyclone ‘Ditwah’, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD). The cyclone is moving north-northwest, prompting authorities to raise maritime warnings. Chittagong, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra ports have been instructed to lower the distant warning signal from 1 to 2, indicating increased vigilance.
According to BMD’s special bulletin issued on Friday morning (28 November), at 12 pm, the centre of Cyclone ‘Ditwah’ was located approximately 2,040 kilometres southwest of Chittagong port, 1,980 kilometres from Cox’s Bazar, 1,940 kilometres from Mongla, and 1,935 kilometres from Payra port.
The bulletin warned that winds near the cyclone’s core are reaching 62 kilometres per hour continuously, with gusts rising up to 88 kilometres per hour. The sea surrounding the cyclone is extremely rough, with high waves posing significant risks to maritime activity. Fishermen and trawlers in the northern Bay of Bengal have been instructed not to venture into deep waters until further notice.
The Meteorological Department emphasised that they are closely monitoring the storm’s progression and will issue updated instructions as necessary. Residents and maritime operators have been advised to remain alert and take all precautionary measures, including avoiding travel in coastal and offshore areas. With Cyclone ‘Ditwah’ advancing steadily, port authorities and local administrations are preparing emergency response plans to mitigate potential damages.
