A depression over the west-central Bay of Bengal and adjoining northwest Bay has intensified into a deep depression and is currently moving northwestward over the same area. The sea remains rough near the centre of the system, with strong winds likely to affect the maritime ports, the north Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department said this in its fourth special weather bulletin.

According to the bulletin, the deep depression was located at around 9pm on Tuesday about 875 kilometres southwest of Chattogram port, 850 kilometres southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 695 kilometres southwest of Mongla port and 720 kilometres southwest of Payra port.

The system is likely to move further west-northwestward and may cross the north Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha coasts of India around midnight today, the bulletin said.

The maximum sustained wind speed within 48 kilometres of the centre of the deep depression is around 50 kilometres per hour, rising to 60 kilometres per hour in gusts or squalls. The sea remains rough near the centre of the system.

In view of the situation, Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra seaports have been advised to keep hoisting local warning signal No. 3.

Fishing boats and trawlers operating in the north Bay of Bengal have also been advised to remain close to the coast and navigate with caution until further notice.