The very severe cyclonic storm Yaas over Northwest Bay and adjoining area has moved North-north-westwards, completed crossing North Odisha-West Bengal coast (between the north of Dhamra and south of Balasore by 3pm Wednesday), and weakened into a severe cyclonic storm and lies over North coastal Odisha.
It may move north-north-westwards further over land and weaken gradually, according to a special weather bulletin issued on Wednesday evening.
Steep pressure gradient persists over North Bay and coastal areas of Bangladesh, the bulletin added.
Maximum sustained wind speed within 64 km of the severe cyclone centre is about 89 kph rising to 117 kph in gusts or squalls. Sea will remain rough.
Maritime ports of Chittagong, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisted the local cautionary Signal No 3.
Under the influence of steep pressure gradient, the districts of Khulna, Satkhira, Bagerhat, Jhalakathi, Pirojpur, Barguna, Patuakhali, Barisal, Bhola, Noakhali, Lakshmipur, Feni, Chandpur and Chittagong and their offshore islands and chars are likely to experience wind speed up to 60-80 kph in gusts or squalls with heavy to very heavy falls.
Under the influence of steep pressure gradient and the full moon phase, the low-lying areas of the districts of Khulna, Satkhira, Bagerhat, Jhalakathi, Pirojpur, Barguna, Patuakhali, Barisal, Bhola, Noakhali, Lakshmipur, Feni, Chandpur and Chittagong are likely to be inundated by three to six feet height above normal astronomical tide.
All fishing boats and trawlers over North Bay and the deep sea have been advised to remain in shelter till further notice.