Low-lying areas of coastal districts face flood risk

Several low-lying areas of coastal districts and their offshore islands and chars are likely to be inundated by tidal surges, Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said on Saturday.

The districts are Satkhira, Khulna, Bagerhat, Jhalakathi, Pirojpur, Barguna, Patuakhali, Bhola, Barishal, Laxmipur, Chandpur, Noakhali, Feni, Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar.

According to the weather department, a steep pressure gradient (pressure changing rapidly between two areas) persists over the North Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh.

Squally weather may affect the maritime ports, the North Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh.

Maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, Payra have been advised to keep hoisted local cautionary signal No 3.

All fishing boats and trawlers over the North Bay have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution until further notice.

Meanwhile, the BMD in its weather forecast valid for 24 hours commencing 9 am, said the axis of monsoon trough runs through Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and thence northeastwards to Assam across central part of Bangladesh.

One of its associated troughs extends up to Northwest Bay, the said BMD.

Monsoon is fairly active over Bangladesh and strong elsewhere over North Bay. A low pressure area is likely to form over the North Bay.

Light to moderate rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at many places over Khulna, Barishal and Chattogram divisions and at a few places over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Dhaka and Sylhet divisions with moderately heavy falls at places over southern part of the country.

The day and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country.