DHAKA, Sep 8, 2024 (BSS) - Maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisted local cautionary signal number three as gusty or squally weather may affect ports, the North Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh.

"The well-marked low over West Central bay and adjoining northwest bay moved northwestwards, intensified into a depression and lies over the same area at 6am today... It is likely to move northwesterly direction and intensify further," said a special weather bulletin issued by the Bangladesh Metrological Department (BMD).

"Under its influence, steep pressure gradient persists over North Bay. Gusty or squally weather may affect the maritime ports, North Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh," it said.

Maximum sustained wind speed within 44 kms of the depression centre is about 40 kph rising to 50 kph in gusts or squalls. Sea will remain moderate near the system, it added.

All fishing boats and trawlers over North Bay have been advised to remain closed to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice.