Bangladesh’s coastal regions have been placed under heightened weather alert as a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal intensifies, prompting authorities to issue local cautionary Signal No. 3 at all maritime ports and Signal No. 1 at several river ports.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) issued the forecast on Wednesday (September 3), warning of gusty conditions along the coast due to the influence of the well-marked low pressure.

According to meteorologist Dr Omar Faruk, the low-pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining regions became more prominent on Wednesday morning and remained almost stationary. It is likely to move west-northwestward.

Due to the resulting pressure gradient, squally weather is expected over the North Bay, along with the coastal areas of Bangladesh and its maritime ports. As a result, Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra seaports have been advised to hoist local cautionary Signal No. 3.

In addition, fishing boats and trawlers operating in the North Bay have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution until further notice.

Meanwhile, strong south to south-easterly winds with speeds of 45–60 km/h, accompanied by rain or thundershowers, may sweep across the regions of Khulna, Barishal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Cumilla, Chattogram, and Cox’s Bazar. River ports in these areas have been asked to display cautionary Signal No. 1.

The BMD continues to monitor the situation and may update warnings based on the system’s movement and intensity.

SMS/