DHAKA: The very severe cyclonic storm “Phailin” (with estimated central pressure 960 hPa) over west central bay and adjoining east central bay moved slightly northwestwards over the same area.

It was centered at 9 am Friday about 790 kms southwest of Chittagong port, 715 kms southwest of Cox’s Bazar port and 715 kms south-southwest of Mongla port (near lat 16.00n and long 88.50 e).

TH cyclonic storm is heading for coastal Odisha and Andhra Pradesh at wind speeds averaging 200 km per hour and is expected to hit the states on Saturday evening. Some weathermen are describing it as potentially India`s version of `hurricane Katrina`, one of the deadliest storms in US history.

Bangladesh Met office says that it is likely to intensify further and move in a northwesterly direction.

Maximum sustained wind speed within 74 kms of the storm centre is about 150 kph rising to 180 kph in gusts or squalls.

Sea will remain very rough near the storm centre, the met office added.

Maritime ports of Chittagong, Cox’s Bazar and Mongla have been advised to keep hoisted distant warning signal number two.

Under the peripheral influence of the cyclone gusty or squally wind may affect North Bay.

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

In association with rain or thunder accompanied by temporary south or south-easterly gusty/squally wind speed 45-60 kph.

It is likely to occur over the regions of Khulna, Barisal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Comilla, Chittagong and Cox’s Bazar wherein river ports shall hoist cautionary signal number one.

BDST: 1421 HRS, OCT 11, 2013
RS/GCP eic@banglanews24.com