The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has advised all four seaports in the country to continue hoisting local cautionary signal No. 3, even though the land depression over the Bay of Bengal is likely to weaken further.

In a special weather bulletin issued on Saturday morning and signed by meteorologist Md. Tariful Newaz Kabir, the BMD reported that the depression had moved inland after crossing the Indian coastline.

According to the bulletin, the low-pressure system had been situated over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining west-central areas, near the coasts of southern Odisha and northern Andhra Pradesh. By 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, it crossed the coast and weakened into a land depression over southern Odisha and nearby regions. The system is expected to continue moving westward and gradually lose strength.

Despite weakening, the depression has caused significant pressure variation over the northern Bay of Bengal. As a result, squally winds are likely to sweep across the northern Bay, Bangladesh’s coastal regions, and adjoining seaports.

Given the risks, the Meteorological Department has instructed Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra seaports to keep signal No. 3 hoisted. Fishermen and operators of fishing boats and trawlers in the northern Bay have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution until further notice.

In a separate weather advisory, the BMD predicted that light to moderate rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty winds are likely to occur in all divisions of the country over the next several days. Some areas may also experience moderately heavy rainfall.

Meteorologists cautioned that these weather conditions could disrupt daily life in coastal and low-lying regions. Residents have been urged to remain alert to sudden changes in wind speed and localized heavy downpours.

Context of the Depression

Depressions and low-pressure systems are common in the Bay of Bengal during the monsoon season and often bring rainfall and strong winds to Bangladesh and neighboring countries. While the current system is weakening, authorities have emphasized continued caution, particularly for maritime activities.

The hoisting of cautionary signal No. 3 indicates the likelihood of squally weather and high waves that could pose risks to vessels in the Bay. Although not as severe as higher warning signals, it serves as a precautionary step to safeguard fishing communities, ports, and coastal residents.

Precautionary Measures

• All fishing boats and trawlers are advised to stay near the coast until further instructions are issued.

• Port authorities are on alert to handle sudden shifts in weather conditions.

• Coastal residents have been asked to follow updates from the Meteorological Department closely.

Authorities stressed that while the depression is weakening, its residual impact may still trigger localized hazards. Therefore, continued vigilance is essential to minimize risks.