The cyclonic storm 'Montha' has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the Westcentral Bay and adjoining Southwest Bay of Bengal and is currently tracking north-northwestwards, according to a special weather bulletin from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

The storm is expected to bypass Bangladesh but is projected to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast of India later today (October 28).

In the bulletin issued this morning, the BMD reported that the severe cyclonic storm was centered at 6 am today (Tuesday) about 1,290 km southwest of Chattogram Port, 1,250 km southwest of Cox's Bazar Port, 1,140 km southwest of Mongla Port, and 1,155 km southwest of Payra Port, BSS reported.

The storm is likely to continue moving north-northwestwards and make landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast by Tuesday evening or night.

Meteorologists report that the maximum sustained wind speed within 64 km of the severe cyclone's center is approximately 90 kph, rising to 110 kph in gusts or squalls. The sea is reported to be "very high" near the cyclone's center.

As a precautionary measure, the maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Mongla, and Payra have been advised to keep distant warning signal number two hoisted.

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

BOB Post