Dhaka, May 29:
A deep depression formed over the Bay of Bengal has started crossing the Bangladesh coastline this afternoon, triggering rain and strong gusty winds across various regions of the country. According to a special bulletin from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), the depression began to make landfall around 3:30 PM today (Thursday).
The system is moving northward and is expected to fully cross the coast by this evening. It is passing between Sagar Island in West Bengal, India, and Khepupara in Bangladesh. The depression is forecasted to gradually weaken after landfall.
Rough Sea Conditions and Local Alerts Issued
The BMD stated that within 48 kilometers of the depression’s center, the sustained wind speed is about 50 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching up to 60 kilometers per hour. As a result, the sea is currently very rough in and around the affected areas.
Due to the adverse weather, the maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra have been advised to hoist local cautionary signal number three. All fishing boats and trawlers in the North Bay have been advised to remain in shelter until further notice.
14 Districts on High Alert for Tidal Surge and Flooding
In addition to gusty winds and rain, the depression combined with the new moon phase could result in tidal surges of 2 to 4 feet above normal. The low-lying areas of the following 14 coastal districts are particularly at risk:
- Chattogram
- Noakhali
- Lakshmipur
- Feni
- Chandpur
- Bhola
- Hatiya
- Sandwip
- Barguna
- Patuakhali
- Barisal
- Pirojpur
- Jhalokathi
- Bagerhat
- Khulna
- Satkhira
Surrounding offshore islands and river estuaries in these districts may also experience flooding.
Preparedness and Emergency Measures Underway
The Disaster Management Department has activated over 500 cyclone shelters in vulnerable coastal regions. Evacuation efforts are ongoing in several areas, with local authorities working in coordination with the Red Crescent, fire services, and volunteers to move residents to safety.
Essential supplies including dry food, clean drinking water, medicine, and rescue equipment have been stockpiled in high-risk areas.
District administrations are conducting awareness campaigns using loudspeakers and urging residents to take immediate shelter. Efforts are also underway to maintain electricity, telecommunications, and transportation services.
Expert Opinion: Short-Term but Serious Threat
Meteorologists have noted that although this depression has not intensified into a cyclone, its combination with high tides and seasonal weather makes it capable of causing short-term flooding, strong winds, and property damage in coastal areas. Riverbanks and embankments could be at risk of collapse if the pressure increases.
They warn that such weather patterns are common in the pre-monsoon period and could bring heavy rainfall to parts of the country in the coming days.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department urges the public to stay updated through official weather bulletins via television, radio, and online platforms. People in at-risk areas are advised to follow government instructions and avoid risky travel or sea activity.
The next 24 hours are crucial, especially for communities living near the coastline and river mouths. Everyone is strongly encouraged to take shelter in designated cyclone centers and avoid exposure to the storm's impact.
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