Bay of Bengal Turns Turbulent Under Low-Pressure Influence; 15 Coastal Districts at Risk of Tidal Flooding

Due to the impact of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, rough conditions are prevailing across the region. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has warned of tidal surges between 1 to 3 feet in 15 coastal districts and adjacent island areas, along with the possibility of heavy rainfall.

On Saturday (July 26), the Meteorological Department issued a special bulletin signed by meteorologist Md. Shahinul Islam, highlighting the potential risks.

According to the bulletin, the low-pressure system that had been situated over West Bengal and adjoining northwestern Bay of Bengal has moved northwestward and is now located over West Bengal and neighboring Jharkhand as of midnight. It is likely to continue moving in that direction. Due to this system, strong pressure gradients have developed over the northern Bay of Bengal, increasing the likelihood of squally weather over the Bay, coastal regions, and sea ports of Bangladesh.

As a precaution, the ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra have been advised to hoist local warning signal number 3.

15 Coastal Districts at Risk of Tidal Surge

Due to the influence of the new moon and the low-pressure system, coastal districts including Satkhira, Khulna, Bagerhat, Jhalokathi, Pirojpur, Barisal, Barguna, Patuakhali, Bhola, Chandpur, Lakshmipur, Noakhali, Feni, Chattogram, and Cox’s Bazar — along with nearby islands and chars — may experience wind-driven tidal surges of 1 to 3 feet above normal tide levels.

All fishing boats and trawlers in the northern Bay of Bengal have been advised to remain anchored in safe harbors until further notice.

Water Levels Cross Danger Mark in Southern Rivers

The Barishal regional office reported that due to the low-pressure system and heavy rainfall, river levels in the southern region have surged above the danger mark. This led to flash flooding in riverside settlements, submerging parts of Barishal city including Sadar Road and several low-lying areas. Homes and roads near the Kirtankhola River were also flooded.

According to the Barishal Water Development Board, all major rivers in the southern region began flowing above the danger level from 3 PM on Friday. The Kirtankhola River was recorded at 30 centimeters above the danger level at 4:40 PM. Officials believe water levels will recede as the tide ebbs.

Barishal Meteorological Office recorded a maximum wind speed of 10 km/h on Friday afternoon, and 21 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours prior. This rainy and windy condition is expected to persist for another two to three days.

Maritime Warning and Rain Forecast Across the Country

Riyad Hossain, Acting Assistant Director of Barishal River Port, confirmed that the Bangladesh Meteorological Department has instructed the display of local warning signal number 3 at maritime ports.

Meteorologist Mostofa Kamal Polash, analyzing satellite images from a Japanese artificial satellite, predicted continuous rainfall across all districts of Bangladesh from Friday through at least Monday. Moderate to heavy rainfall was reported in Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram, and Dhaka divisions. Coastal regions of Chattogram experienced gusts ranging from 40 to 60 km/h, leading to rough seas and turbulent estuaries.

Advisory for Fishermen

Fishermen are strongly advised to refrain from venturing into the sea until at least Tuesday, as sea conditions are expected to remain highly unfavorable. Authorities urge residents of coastal and riverside areas to remain alert and take necessary safety precautions.