The very severe cyclonic storm Mocha - over east central Bay and adjoining area - is likely to intensify further, move in a north-northwesterly direction and cross Cox's Bazar-Myanmar’s north coast by today (Sunday) evening, Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) in a special bulletin forecasts on Saturday.
Maximum sustained wind speed within 74 km of the very severe cyclone centre is about 150 kph, rising to 170 kph, in gusts or squalls. Meteorologists have warned of heavy rains during and under the influence of the storm.
The coastal districts of Cox's Bazar, Chattogram, Feni, Noakhali, Laxmipur, Chandpur, Bhola and their islands and chars are likely to be inundated by the wind driven surge - 8-12 feet above normal tide.
Under the peripheral effect of very severe cyclone and steep pressure gradient, the low-lying areas of the coastal districts of Feni, Noakhali, Laxmipur, Chandpur, Bhola and their offshore islands and chars are likely to be inundated by the wind driven surge height of 05-07 feet above normal astronomical tide.
We hope, the government
would be able to avert any
massive damage or loss of
properties
Meanwhile, the government has taken all the necessary preparations at all levels to face cyclone Mocha. Ministries concerned and other stakeholders have already taken initiatives following the standing orders on disaster (SOD) to deal with the damage.
All concerned government officials including deputy commissioners upazila nirbahi officers, upazila and union parishad chairmen, members and volunteers of different organisations, including Red Crescent Society, have also taken all out preparations in advance in the coastal belts. Besides, local lawmakers are working hard to protect the people and their properties at the respective constituencies from the possible impact of the storm.
The ministry of disaster management and relief will also have to maintain constant communication with local administration and potentially vulnerable districts in order to take preparation in advance.
The Cyclone Preparedness Program (CPP) has been directed to give early warning in this regard. Therefore, we hope that the government would be able to avert any massive damage or loss of properties.
