Signal 2 for maritime ports as storm ‘Gaja’ intensifies

The maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisting local cautionary signal number two (Rpt) two as the cyclonic storm, ‘Gaja’, intensifying into a severe cyclonic storm over West-northwestwards, moved East central bay , adjoining west central bay and southeast bay, BSS reported.

“The deep depression over south-east bay and adjoining area moved West-northwestwards, intensified into a cyclonic storm ‘Gaja’ over East central bay and adjoining west central bay and southeast bay,” a met office bulletin said here this morning.

“It was centered about 1020 km south-southwest of Chattogram port, 945 km south-southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 1005 km south of Mongla port and 960 km south of Payra Port today,” the bulletin added.

It is likely to intensify further and move in a northwesterly Direction.

Maximum sustained wind speed within 54 km of the cyclone centre is about 62 kph rising to 88 kph in gusts or squalls. Sea will remain very rough near the cyclone centre.

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