More rain on the horizon as depression forms over Bay of Bengal

It is expected to cross the Bangladesh coast by Friday afternoon

A low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal has intensified and developed into a depression, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

“The depression may cross the Bangladesh coast in the afternoon. Due to its impact, rainfall is likely in coastal districts and various parts of the country,” Meteorologist Kazi Jebunnesa said on Friday.

In a special bulletin, the BMD said the depression is currently located over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal areas of India's West Bengal and Bangladesh.

As of 6am, it was located about 265km west-southwest of Chattogram seaport, 265km west of Cox’s Bazar, 130km southwest of Mongla, and 110km southwest of Payra.

Due to the weather system, steep pressure gradients lie over the northern Bay of Bengal. Squally or gusty winds may sweep across the northern Bay, coastal areas of Bangladesh and its maritime ports.

The BMD said maximum sustained wind speed within 44km of the depression’s centre is about 40 kmh, rising up to 50 kmh in gusts or squalls.

The sea remains rough near the depression centre. As a result, local cautionary signal No. 3 has been advised for Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra seaports.

Due to the new moon and the depression, coastal districts, including Satkhira, Khulna, Bagerhat, Jhalakathi, Pirojpur, Barishal, Barguna, Patuakhali, Bhola, Chandpur, Lakshmipur, Noakhali, Feni, Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, and nearby islands and shoals may experience tidal surges 1 to 3 feet higher than normal.

All fishing boats and trawlers in the northern Bay of Bengal have been advised to seek shelter immediately and remain there until further notice.