The periphery of cyclonic storm 'Midhili' has started crossing the Mongla-Payra coast near Khepupara as of 12pm, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).
The cyclone is likely to move north-northeastward further and may complete crossing the coast by the evening.
As of 12:00 pm, the cyclone was centered about 310kms west-southwest of Chattogram port, 310kms west-southwest of Cox's Bazar port, 145kms south-southwest of Mongla port and 150kms southwest of Payra port, reports UNB.
The maximum sustained wind speed within 54kms of the cyclone centre is about 62kph rising to 88kph in gusts or squalls. The sea remains very rough near the cyclone centre, according to the BMD.
Maritime ports of Payra and Mongla have been advised to keep hoisted danger signal no. seven until further notice.
Meanwhile, maritime ports of Cox's Bazar and Chattogram have been advised to keep hoisted Danger Signal No. 6 (six).
Under the peripheral effect of the cyclonic storm, heavy (44-88 mm) to very heavy (≥89mm) rainfall with gusty or squally wind persists over north bay, their offshore islands, chars and coastal areas of Bangladesh.
The low-lying areas of the coastal districts of Cox's Bazar, Chattogram, Noakhali, Laxmipur, Feni, Barguna, Bhola, Patuakhali, Bagherhat, Khulna, Satkhira and their offshore islands and chars have been inundated by wind-driven surge of 3-5 feet above normal astronomical tide due to the peripheral effect of the cyclone and steep pressure gradient.
Under the influence of the cyclone, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions experienced heavy (44-88 mm) to very heavy (289 mm) rainfall.
And due to very heavy rainfall, landslides may occur at some places over the hilly regions of Chattogram Division, according to the BMD bulletin.
Meanwhile, all fishing boats and trawlers over North Bay and the deep sea have been advised to remain in shelter until further notice.
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