Bangladesh’s Meteorological Department has advised 12 regions to remain alert as gusty or squally winds of up to 60 kilometres per hour may sweep across the areas, accompanied by temporary rain or thunderstorms in places.
The warning was issued in a forecast released by the Meteorological Department on Wednesday. In response to the anticipated weather conditions, river ports in the affected regions have been instructed to display the number one warning signal.
According to the forecast, winds from the south or south-eastern direction may reach speeds of between 45 and 60 kilometres per hour across Pabna, Dhaka, Faridpur, Jashore, Kushtia, Khulna, Barishal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Cumilla, Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar.
Temporary rain or thunderstorms may develop alongside the gusty winds. The combination of strong winds, rain and lightning could make conditions more difficult for vessels operating on rivers and other waterways, particularly smaller boats and open vessels.
The 12 regions mentioned in the forecast cover both inland and coastal parts of the country. Dhaka, Faridpur, Pabna, Kushtia and Jashore are among the inland areas, while Khulna, Barishal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Cumilla, Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar include riverine and coastal locations.
The number one warning signal serves as an indication of potentially hazardous weather conditions around the relevant river ports. Although it does not necessarily mean that all waterways will become dangerous at the same time, sudden changes in wind speed and rainfall can create difficulties for vessels, especially when conditions deteriorate quickly.
Boat operators, masters and passengers have therefore been advised to monitor the latest weather information before and during river journeys. Particular caution is needed when dark clouds gather, winds strengthen suddenly or thunderstorms approach.
Small boats can be especially vulnerable to sudden gusts. Open vessels also leave passengers more exposed to heavy rain, strong winds and lightning. Those travelling on waterways should avoid unnecessary exposure during thunderstorms and move to a safe shelter whenever conditions become threatening.
The possibility of temporary thunderstorms also raises concerns about lightning. People on rivers or in exposed areas may face greater risks during lightning activity, making timely decisions about taking shelter particularly important.
The forecast does not indicate that the adverse conditions will persist continuously across all 12 regions. Weather conditions can change rapidly from one locality to another, and rainfall or thunderstorms may occur temporarily. River users are therefore advised to remain attentive to local conditions rather than relying solely on conditions observed when beginning a journey.
The Meteorological Department’s warning is specifically linked to the possibility of south or south-easterly winds reaching 45 to 60 kilometres per hour, along with temporary rain or thunderstorms. On the basis of these conditions, the relevant river ports have been asked to maintain the number one warning signal and remain prepared for sudden deterioration in weather.
