Monsoon depression forms at northwest bay

The low centered at 12:00noon about 540 kms west-southwest of Chittagong Port, 520 kms west-southwest of Cox's Bazar Port and 350 kms southwest of Mongla Port.

It is likely to intensify further and move into a northwesterly direction. Its associated steep pressure gradient persists over North Bay.

Squally weather may affect the ports, said a Met Office bulletin.

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.

Maritime ports of Chittagong, Cox's Bazar and Mongla have been advised to hoist local cautionary signal number three.

All fishing boats and trawlers over north Bay have been advised to come close to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice.