‘Amphan’ may hit Bangladesh coast this evening

Cyclone Amphan, one of the worst storms over the Bay of Bengal in years, is likely to hit West Bengal-Bangladesh coast between this afternoon and evening, according to Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

However, the met office did not mention any specific time when the cyclone hits the coast. But meteorologists say the main blow could come after 8:00pm.

When asked Meteorologist Md Shahinur Islam said, “We did not mention specific time. We said it may hit between this afternoon and evening.”

How long it can take to cross the coastal area, he replied that it can take 5 to 6 hours to cross the coastal area. Later, it may gradually weaken after hitting our lands and Indian territory.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh met office has advised the maritime ports of Mongla and Payra to hoist great danger signal number 10 while great danger signal number 9 at Chattogram and Cox's Bazar.

The cyclone over northwest Bay and adjoining northeast Bay and west central Bay moved north-northeastwards and lies over the same area.

It was centred at 12:00 noon on Wednesday about 480km southwest of Chattogram port, 470 km southwest of Cox's Bazar port, 290 km southwest of Mongla port and 320 km southwest of Payra port.

Maximum sustained wind speed within 85 kms of the cyclone centre is about 200 kph rising to 220 kph in gusts/ squalls.

Sea will remain very high near the cyclone centre.

Dhaka/Shaon/AKA