Monsoon depression intensifies into deep depression

The monsoon depression over North Bay and has intensified into a deep convection. On Tuesday, the depression remained practically stationary over the same area – about 180 kilometres (km) west-southwest of Chittagong Port, 200 kms west-northwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 75 kms southeast of Mongla Port and 10 kms east of Payra port (near lat 22.00 n and long 90.20 e). Now it lies over northeast Bay and adjoining Bangladesh coast. Met Office says the deep depression was centred at 12noon Wednesday about 180 kms southwest of Chittagong Port, 135 kms southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 190 kms southeast of Mongla Port and 125 kms southeast of Payra port (near lat 21.00 n and long 90.80 e). It is likely to intensify further. Under it’s influence squally weather may affect North Bay, adjoining coastal area of Bangladesh and the maritime ports. Maximum sustained wind speed within 48 kms of the depression centre is about 50 kph rising to 60 kph in gusts or squalls. Sea will remain rough near the depression centre. Under the influence of the deep depression the low-lying areas of the coastal districts of Cox’s Bazar, Chittagong, Noakhali, Lakshmipur, Feni, Chandpur, Bhola, Barisal, Patuakhali,  Borguna, Bagerhat, Khulna, Satkhira and their offshore islands and chars are likely to be inundated by wind driven surge of 3-4 feet height above normal astronomical tide. All fishing boats and trawlers over North Bay have been advised to take shelter immediately and remain in shelter till further notice, according to a news agency.

- mbz