A low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a well-marked depression, raising the likelihood of heavy rainfall across six divisions of Bangladesh, according to the national meteorological office.

Meteorologist Md. Tariful Newaz Kabir said on Monday that the system, located over the west-central Bay and adjoining north-western Bay off the north Andhra–south Odisha coast, had strengthened into a distinct low-pressure area. 

He added that the southwest monsoon is currently active over Bangladesh and strong over the northern Bay of Bengal.

Forecasts issued until Tuesday morning warned of light to moderate showers, accompanied by temporary gusty winds, in many areas of Rangpur, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions, as well as in parts of Rajshahi and Dhaka divisions. 

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in some places within the six divisions most at risk. Day and night temperatures may rise slightly across the country.

For the 24 hours beginning Tuesday morning, the forecast indicated that Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions would see widespread light to moderate showers, with isolated areas likely to experience heavier downpours.

Separately, another advisory cautioned that strong winds from the south and southeast, blowing at 45–60 km per hour, may sweep across Khulna, Barishal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Cumilla, Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar regions, bringing rain or thunderstorms. 

River ports in these areas have been instructed to hoist cautionary signal number one.

SMS/