A low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal has led to continuous rainfall and rough sea conditions in Cox’s Bazar, severely affecting tourism in the region while thousands of people have been affected by the threat of landslides in Teknaf.
As the downpour enters its fourth day, many tourists have begun to cancel hotel bookings and leave early. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has issued Local Warning Signal No. 3 for Cox’s Bazar and three other seaports. According to local hotel owners, more than 90% of rooms were booked ahead of the extended weekend, but most are now vacant due to the weather.
“By Monday afternoon, a large number of tourists had already checked out and left,” said Mokim Khan, General Secretary of the Hotel and Resort Owners Association.
“More than 500 hotels, motels, and resorts are seeing cancellations,” he said. The heavy rains have flooded low-lying areas in Cox’s Bazar town and nine upazilas, hampering road transport and daily activities. In Ukhiya, water has entered several Rohingya refugee camps, creating concern among aid officials.
Project Implementation Officer ATM Kawsar Ahmed added that local representatives have been asked to submit damage reports to the administration. Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner Mohammad Mizanur Rahman said that several camp sheds are now underwater. Instructions have been given to camp authorities and NGOs to assist affected families.
Rough sea conditions have made swimming extremely dangerous.
Sea-Safe Lifeguard supervisor Saifullah Sifat said red flags have been raised along the beach to warn of hidden canals and strong currents.
Despite repeated warnings, some tourists have been seen entering the water, ignoring the risks. Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Salahuddin said law enforcement officials are monitoring the situation closely to prevent accidents.
“Tourists are being asked not to enter the sea. Red flags have been placed in risky areas, and necessary safety measures are in place.”
As of 3:00 PM Monday, 153 mm of rain had been recorded in Cox’s Bazar over 24 hours. The Met Office forecasts heavy to very heavy rainfall to continue through July 9, with a risk of landslides in hill areas.
