Three BMD radars out of service, forecasts continue with two

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) is forecasting weather on the basis of data received from two functional radar stations while the radars stationed at Cox’s Bazar, Khepupara and Moulvibazar are out of servuce for a long time.

Two of the coast radars not working mean that no data from the deep sea can be received. Yet, the BMD claimed that it prepares forecasts based on mathematical models, satellite images and data from 275 automated weather stations.

Dr Abul Kalam Mallik, senior meteorologist, said the BMD prepares forecasts up to five days ahead and there is likelihood of errors in the forecast too.

Mominul Islam, director of BMD, said the forecasting capability of the department was far better than before and even data from satellites of Japan, South Korea and China were being utilized for preparing forecasts.

Weather scientists said it was necessary to install new radar stations, especially in south-east region.

-AJM