The low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep depression, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

In a special weather bulletin on Thursday morning, the Met office said the low-pressure area over the west-central Bay and adjoining areas moved northwestward and became a deep depression over the west-central Bay and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal.

At 6 am Thursday, the deep depression was centered about 875 km southwest of Chattogram port, 830 km southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 735 km southwest of Mongla port, and 740 km southwest of Payra port.

The maximum sustained wind speed within 48 km of the deep depression center was about 50 km per hour, rising to 60 km per hour in gusts or squalls.

The BMD said the system is likely to move further north-northwestward.

The sea will remain very rough near the deep depression center. Under its influence, squally weather may affect the north Bay, coastal areas of Bangladesh, and maritime ports.

As a precaution, Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, and Payra seaports have been advised to keep hoisted local cautionary signal No. 3.

All fishing boats and trawlers over the north Bay have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution until further notice so they can return to the harbor on short notice.

The depression originated from a low that formed over the Bay on Wednesday and intensified into a depression at night before turning into a deep depression on Thursday morning.

Meanwhile, rain has been reported in Dhaka and several other parts of the country under the influence of the system. The capital’s sky remained cloudy since Thursday morning.

According to Wednesday night’s weather bulletin, light to moderate rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty winds were likely to occur at most places over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram, and Sylhet divisions within 24 hours from 6 pm. Heavy to very heavy rainfall may also occur at places across the country.

Day temperature may fall by 2–3 degrees Celsius, while night temperature may fall slightly across the country, it added.