Severe Storm Warnings Issued for Dhaka and Five Districts

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has issued an urgent weather bulletin forecasting high-velocity storms across six districts, including the capital, Dhaka. According to the meteorological office, gusts of up to 80 kilometres per hour (km/h) are expected to sweep through these regions by Tuesday evening. Consequently, specific cautionary signals have been hoisted at inland river ports to ensure the safety of maritime transit and local residents.

Regional Forecast and Wind Velocity

In a weather forecast released on Tuesday, valid from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, the BMD stated that temporary gusty or squally winds, accompanied by rain or thundershowers, are likely to affect the central and south-eastern belts of the country. The air circulation is expected to originate from the west or north-west directions.

The primary regions identified as being at risk of higher intensity storms include:

• Tangail

• Mymensingh

• Dhaka

• Faridpur

• Cumilla

• Noakhali

In these six districts, wind speeds are projected to fluctuate between 60 and 80 km/h. Due to the potential volatility of the weather, river ports in these specific areas have been advised to hoist Riverine Warning Signal Number 2.

National Outlook and Safety Protocols

Beyond the high-risk zones, the remainder of the country is also expected to experience unstable atmospheric conditions. Winds originating from the west or north-west are anticipated to reach speeds of 45 to 60 km/h in other regions. These areas may also witness temporary squalls and electrical storms. In response to these conditions, the authorities have directed river ports in the rest of Bangladesh to display Cautionary Signal Number 1.

The following table provides a summary of the wind speeds and corresponding signals as mandated by the meteorological authorities:

Context of Inland Warning Signals

In Bangladesh, the inland river port warning system is distinct from maritime port signals. Signal Number 1 indicates that a section of the river port area is affected by squally weather with wind speeds up to 60 km/h, requiring vessels to proceed with caution. Signal Number 2 is more severe, indicating a storm of temporary nature with wind speeds up to 80 km/h, suggesting that vessels of certain specifications should seek shelter or exercise extreme vigilance.

The BMD continues to monitor atmospheric pressure distributions and moisture levels. Residents in the affected districts are advised to remain alert to further updates, as sudden thundershowers (locally known as Kalbaishakhi) can lead to rapid changes in visibility and water conditions in the riverine network. All river-going vessels have been encouraged to adhere strictly to the safety guidelines issued by the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) during this period.