Bay of Bengal Low-Pressure System May Develop Into Cyclone Within 48 Hours

A well-marked low-pressure system over the southeast and adjoining east-central Bay of Bengal may develop into a cyclone within the next 48 hours, with the potential to intensify further over the coming days, according to the Bangladesh Weather Observation Team (BWOT).

In a forecast issued on Saturday (October 24), BWOT said the system could intensify into a depression within the next six to 12 hours and develop into a deep depression within the following 24 to 36 hours. It has a strong possibility of becoming a full-fledged cyclone within 48 hours and could continue gaining strength over the next three to four days.

According to BWOT, the system currently has an average maximum wind speed of 35 kilometres per hour within a 100-kilometre radius of its centre. Wind speeds may reach 45 kilometres per hour during gusts or squalls. As a result, the sea is gradually becoming rough in the central Bay of Bengal and surrounding areas.

The organisation said the Bangladesh Meteorological Department has not yet issued any official warning signals for the country's seaports. However, warning signals may be issued soon.

Fishing boats and trawlers have been advised not to venture more than 150 kilometres offshore into the deep sea. Fishermen have also been urged to remain close to the coast and move cautiously until further instructions are issued.

According to the forecast, the system may move generally southward and southeastward over the next 24 to 36 hours before gathering strength and potentially turning westward. It could reach its maximum intensity after moving into the west-central and adjoining southwestern Bay of Bengal.

Although there are signs that the system could develop into a strong cyclone, its eventual intensity remains uncertain.

BWOT said there is currently no indication that the cyclone will directly hit Bangladesh's coast or cause major destruction in the country. After developing into a cyclone, it may cross the coast of northern Andhra Pradesh or adjoining southern Odisha in India on October 28, according to the forecast.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall may occur in parts of India when the system makes landfall. Its peripheral effects could also bring widespread rainfall to Bangladesh.

BWOT forecasts that the cyclone's indirect effects could activate a widespread rain system across Bangladesh from October 27 or 28. The rainfall may continue until November 1, with significant precipitation possible across most parts of the country.

Among the divisions, Barishal, Khulna, Rajshahi, Rangpur, Mymensingh and Dhaka may receive comparatively heavier rainfall. Districts in Chattogram and Sylhet divisions, meanwhile, could experience relatively less rainfall, BWOT said.