Bangladesh is bracing itself for the arrival of ‘Very Severe’ Cyclonic Storm Mocha, which is expected to make landfall in its Southeastern coastal areas on May 14. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has asked the maritime ports of Cox’s Bazar and Chattogram to keep hoisting great danger signal number 8, while Mongla and Payra ports have been advised to keep hoisting local warning signal number 4.
In preparation for the cyclone, the Cox’s Bazar airport has shut down its operation from Saturday morning until Sunday evening. The government has also shut down the gas supply from the two floating LNG terminals in Cox’s Bazar, which will affect the gas supply to the area. Additionally, the National University and five boards have postponed their examinations in view of the cyclone.
At 6 a.m. on Saturday, Cyclone Mocha was about 815 kilometres away from Chattogram port, 745 kilometres from Cox’s Bazar port, 785 kilometres from Mongla port, and 745 kilometres from Payra port, according to the BMD’s latest bulletin.
The peripheral effect of the Cyclone is expected to cause a wind-driven surge of 8 to 12 feet height above normal astronomical tide, which could inundate low-lying areas of the coastal districts of Cox’s Bazar and Chattogram.
The authorities have urged people to stay indoors and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property. The Bangladesh Navy, Coast Guard, and other agencies have also been put on high alert to respond to any emergency situations. The government has set up cyclone shelters and allocated funds to provide relief to those affected by the storm. (with inputs from newsonair)