The deep depression over west-central Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas is now located 500 km southwest of Chittagong seaport. In this situation, Chittagong Port has issued its own Alert-1 to deal with possible cyclone.

Chittagong Port Secretary Omar Farooq told the media, “The port has issued its own alert-1. Initially, vessels staying at port jetties and outer anchorages have been asked to be cautious. However, the operation of Chittagong port is normal so far.

He also said that all preparations are underway to protect the Chittagong port from the cyclone. We will also issue our own alert following the instructions of the Meteorological Office.

Chittagong Port issued its own Alert-2 when the Meteorological Office issued local warning signal number 4. Besides, Chittagong Port issues its own Alert-3 when distress signals are issued from No. 5 to No. 7. Then unloading of goods at outer anchorage and jetty was stopped. From the jetty the ships are sent to the sea. In addition, Chittagong port issued its own Alert-4 of the highest level of caution in case of distress signal 8, 9 and 10. All port activities are closed then. This precautionary measure has been taken since 1992 to protect jetties, machinery and goods.

Patenga Meteorological Office Forecasting Officer Nurul Karim told Jago News, “The country’s seaports have been asked to show local warning signal number three. In the meantime, rain has started under the influence of deep depression. The low pressure may develop into a cyclone overnight. In the next 24 hours, rain will continue along with the wind.

He also said, ‘Within 48 km of the low pressure center, the maximum sustained wind speed is 50 km per hour. It is increasing up to 60 kilometers per hour in the form of gusts or gusts. The sea is rough under the influence of low pressure.