UPDATE: (17:02pm) In addition to the rainstorm, gusty or squally winds at speeds of 45-60 km/h are likely to occur over the following regions: Rajshahi, Rangpur, Pabna, Bogra, Tangail, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Faridpur, Jessore, Kushtia, Khulna, Barisal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Comilla, Chittagong, Cox's Bazar and Sylhet. The meteorological office hoisted the flag for a signal number one (on a scale of one to ten) warning for these areas’ river ports.
Heavy downpour has disrupted normal life, as strong monsoon rains are taking place over North Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh and the maritime ports since Friday, causing deep atmospheric convection.
In the capital, some 85mm rainwater was recorded in the last 24 hours, especially Friday night, while only 11mm rainfall was recorded here from 6am-12pm, a spokesman from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department said Saturday.
Hoever, heavy rainfall still continues in different parts of the country, mainly in southern coastal belts, he said.
The capital city witnessed water logging due to heavy rainfall in different areas including: Mirpur, Kazipara, Shewrapara, Kalyanpur, Mohammadpur, Town Hall, Asad Gate, Karwan Bazar, Moghbazar, Malibagh, Mouchak, Gulshan, Banani, Nayapaltan, Kakrail, Rayerbagh and Sanir Akhara.
Meanwhile, the maritime ports of Chittagong, Cox's Bazar and Mongla were advised to keep the local cautionary signal three flag hoisted due to the deep convective cloud formations over the North Bay and its adjoining areas.
All fishing boats and trawlers in the North Bay have been advised to remain close to the coast, and proceed with caution until further notice.
Public transportation was very thin on the city streets, causing difficulties for commuters, professionals, and office-goers.
Witnesses said small business owners kept their businesses shut, as they could not go out of doors due to the torrential rain.
