The well-marked low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression and may further intensify into a cyclonic storm, namely ‘Mocha’, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD). The depression was recorded at 1,495km South-Southwest of Cox’s Bazar, 1,585km South of Mongla, and 1,535km South of Payra port. The Indian Meteorological Department named the cyclone ‘Mocha’, and also reported that the depression is likely to turn into a cyclonic storm over Southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of east central Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea by May 10.
Cyclonic storm may hit Bangladesh-Myanmar coasts
The bulletin also mentioned that the depression could turn into a cyclonic storm and move north-eastwards, crossing the Bangladesh-Myanmar coasts on May 14. The storm is expected to have wind speeds between 135kmph and 160kmph on May 13. Maritime ports have been asked to display cautionary signal-1 as wind speeds out at sea may exceed 61kmph. Fishing boats have been advised to stay close to the shore and be cautious.
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Impact of cyclone on heatwaves
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department forecasts that the severe heatwave sweeping over Rajshahi, Netrokona, Khulna, Chuadanga, and Kushtia, and mild to moderate heatwave elsewhere in the country, may continue. The Met office recorded Dhaka’s highest temperature at 39.8 degrees Celsius, while Chuadanga recorded the highest temperature in the country, 41.2 degrees Celsius. The depression and the subsequent cyclonic storm could bring relief to the people by lowering the temperature but may cause damage to crops and property.
Preparedness measures by authorities
The authorities have taken measures to brace for the cyclonic storm. The government has started evacuating people from vulnerable areas and building shelters for them. They have also allocated funds to provide essential commodities to the affected people. The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society is working with the authorities to prepare for the storm by stocking up on relief items such as food, water, and medicines. The organization has activated its emergency response team and prepositioned relief items in the coastal areas.
The impact of climate change
Cyclones have become a common occurrence in the Bay of Bengal. Climate change has resulted in more frequent and severe weather events, leading to the loss of life and property. According to the Climate Risk Index 2022, Bangladesh is the second-most affected country by climate change, and it is vulnerable to the adverse impacts of natural disasters such as cyclones. The government must take steps to mitigate the effects of climate change and prepare for the adverse impacts of cyclones by building resilient infrastructure and implementing early warning systems.
To conclude, the depression in the Bay of Bengal has intensified, and it may turn into a cyclonic storm, hitting the Bangladesh-Myanmar coasts on May 14. The authorities have taken measures to evacuate people and provide relief to the affected people. The cyclonic storm may bring relief to the people suffering from severe heatwaves but may cause damage to crops and property. Climate change has resulted in more frequent and severe weather events, and Bangladesh, being one of the most affected countries, must take steps to mitigate its effects and build resilience.
