Maritime Ports Advised to Hoist Local Cautionary Signal No. 3

Maritime ports across Chittagong, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra have been directed to hoist Local Cautionary Signal No. 3, as per the latest maritime warning bulletin issued by the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

In addition, all fishing boats and trawlers currently operating over the North Bay have been strongly advised to remain in safe shelter until further notice due to deteriorating weather conditions.

Risk of Tidal Inundation in Coastal Regions

According to the BMD, low-lying coastal areas of Bangladesh are likely to experience inundation caused by wind-driven tidal surges. These surges are forecasted to rise between 1 to 3 feet above the normal astronomical tide, influenced by both the new moon phase and a prevailing land depression.

The following districts and offshore areas have been identified as being at risk:

Additionally, offshore islands and chars adjacent to these districts are also vulnerable to inundation.

Depression Movement and Weather Forecast

The depression system responsible for the warnings developed over Gangetic West Bengal and nearby regions of the northwest Bay and Bangladesh coastline. As of midnight on 25 July, it was situated over Gangetic West Bengal and adjoining Jharkhand as a land depression.

It is predicted to move further west-northwestwards in the coming hours.

Under the influence of this depression:

• A steep pressure gradient has formed over the North Bay.
• Gusty or squally weather conditions may prevail.
• Maritime ports, the North Bay, and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh are expected to be affected.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department urges continuous monitoring and strict adherence to safety instructions, particularly for seafarers and coastal residents.