Cyclone 'Montha' likely to intensify, maritime ports cautioned

The cyclonic storm 'Montha' over the Westcentral Bay and adjoining Southwest Bay of Bengal is likely to move north-northwestwards and intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm.

The severe cyclonic storm was centered at 6 am today (Tuesday), about 1,290 kms southwest of Chattogram Port, while 1,250 kms southwest of Cox's Bazar Port, 1,140 kms southwest of Mongla Port and 1,155 kms southwest of Payra Port, according to a special weather bulletin issued by the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) today.

The storm is likely to move further north-northwestwards and cross the Andhra Pradesh coast of India around the evening or night of today, the bulletin said.

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 cyclone centre.

Maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisted distant warning signal number two.

All fishing boats and trawlers over the North Bay have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution until further notice. They are also advised not to venture into the deep sea.