The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has been monitoring the buildup and tracking the progress of the cyclone since it developed out of a depression in the Bay earlier this week.
“It is likely to intensify further and move in a north-northeasterly direction and may cross Barisal-Chittagong coast by noon/afternoon of 21 May 2016”, the bulletin issued on Friday night said.
The bulletin predicted gusty winds sweeping the coastal areas of the country since Saturday morning.
“Maximum sustained wind speed within 54 km of the cyclone centre is about 62 kph rising to 88 kph in gusts/squalls. Sea will remain very rough near the cyclone centre”, the bulletin warned.
Maritime ports of Chittagong, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep danger signal number seven hoisted.
The Cox’s Bazar coastal region would come within the danger signal number 6, the Met Office said.
Low lying coastal regions like Chittagong, Noakhali, Laxmipur, Feni, Chandpur, Bhola, Borguna, and their offshore islands could experience tides measuring 4-5 feet taller than normal astronomical tides due to the cyclone, the bulletin said.
Fishermen have been advised not to venture into deep sea until further notice.
The forecast has also warned of landslides due to the heavy rains.
The Mongla and Chittagong docks have been closed due to bad weather. Although the airport at Chittagong remains operational, all precautionary measures are in place. The Bangladesh Inland Waterways Transport Authority has suspended operation of all boats and steamers due to the hostile weather condition.
Meanwhile Disaster Management and Relief Ministry Secretary Md Shah Kamal has said all precautions are in place to meet the calamity.
>> 2.15 million people from 18 districts have been provided with safer refuge in 3,185 camps.
>> The weekend holiday for officials in the districts that are likely to be affected have been cancelled to deal with any eventuality.
>> Ansar and VDP, Cyclone Preparedness Programme committees, Red Crescent Society and other agencies are working in tandem at the Upazila and Union levels.
>> All personnel of disaster response teams have been asked to remain present at their designated offices to distribute relief material if needed.
>> Divisional Commissioners of regions in danger have been asked to keep dry food and potable water ready.