Signal 3 remains at four maritime ports despite weakening low-pressure system

Although the well-marked low-pressure area over India’s Jharkhand and adjoining regions has weakened into a regular low, strong steep pressure gradients continue to persist over the North Bay of Bengal.

As a result, squally winds may sweep across coastal regions and the Bay, prompting authorities to maintain local cautionary signal No. 3 at the country’s four seaports, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

In a warning issued on Saturday and signed by meteorologist AKM Nazmul Haque, the BMD said the well-marked low over Jharkhand and adjoining areas had weakened into a low-pressure area.

It is currently located over southeastern Jharkhand and adjoining areas, the warning said.

Under its influence, gusty or squally winds may sweep across the maritime ports, the north Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh.

The BMD has therefore asked the ports of Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Mongla and Payra to continue displaying local warning signal No. 3.

The weather office has also advised all fishing boats and trawlers operating in the north Bay to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution until further notice.

The warning comes as the pressure gradient over the north Bay remains pronounced despite the weakening of the low-pressure system.

The BMD's advisory does not indicate that the low is expected to strengthen again, but the continuing pressure difference may still produce strong winds in maritime and coastal areas.

Authorities have urged fishing vessels in the north Bay to exercise caution while the warning remains in force.