DHAKA: The very severe cyclonic storm “hudhud” (ecp 960 hpa) over west central bay & adjoining area moved slightly north-northwestwards over the same area and was centred at 6:00 am Sunday.

It is now about 1010 kms west-southwest of Chittagong port, 965 kms west-southwest of Cox’s bazar port, 840 kms southwest of Mongla port and 855 kms southwest of Payra port (near lat 16.9°n and long 84.5°e), said a special bulletin from Bangladesh Meteorology Department.

 It is likely to move in a northwesterly direction and may cross north Andhra coast of India around noon Sunday.

Maximum sustained wind speed within 74kms of the storm centre is about 170kph rising to 190kph in gusts or squalls. Sea will remain very high near the storm centre.

 Under the influence of the very severe cyclonic storm, deep convection is taking place over North Bay. Gusty or squally weather may continue over North Bay, coastal area and maritime ports of Bangladesh.

Maritime ports of Chittagong, Cox’s bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisted local cautionary signal number three, said the met office.

Under the influence of very severe cyclonic storm the low-lying areas of the coastal districts of Cox’s bazar, Chittagong, Noakhali, Laxmipur,  Feni, Chandpur, Borguna, Bhola, Patuakhali, Barisal, Pirozpur, Jhalokathi, Bagherhat, Khulna, Satkhira and their offshore islands and chars are likely to be inundated by wind driven surge of 1-3 feet height above normal astronomical tide.

All fishing boats and trawlers over North Bay have been advised to remain in shelter till further notice.

** Cyclone ‘Hudhud’ 870 kms from Mongla 

BDST: 0938 HRS, OCT 12, 2014