'Bulbul' may hit Bangladesh coast Saturday midnight

The deep depression over East-central Bay and adjoining area has intensified into a cyclonic storm 'Bulbul', and it may hit Bangladesh coast on Saturday midnight.

The maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisting distant warning signal number three due to the deep depression.

A special weather bulletin of the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said it was centred about 760 km southwest of Chattogram port, 710 km southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 665 km southwest of Mongla port and 650 km southwest of Payraport at 6.00am on Friday.

It is likely to intensify further and move in a north-northwesterly direction. Under the peripheral influence of the severe cyclonic storm “Bulbul”, gusty/squally weather may affect the maritime ports, North Bay and coastal areas of Bangladesh.

The maximum sustained wind speed within 64 kms of the severe cyclone centre is about 90 kph rising to 110 kph in gusts or squalls. The sea will remain very high near the severe cyclone centre, the Met Office added.

All fishing boats and trawlers over North Bay have been advised to take shelter immediately and remain in shelter till further notice.

Dhaka/Mukul