Bangladesh issues warning as cyclone Komen intensifies

Bangladesh has issued an alert over Cyclone Komen that is heading towards its coastlines.

A special bulletin of Bangladesh Meteorological Department said the storm is likely to move in a northerly direction and may cross Bangladesh coast by Thursday noon or afternoon.

Under its influence, squally weather is continuing over the North Bay, adjoining coastal area of Bangladesh and the maritime ports.

All fishing boats and trawlers over the north bay have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice. They are also advised not to venture into the deep sea.

The special bulletin issued early Thursday night said the cyclone was centered about 110 km south to southwest of Bangladesh 's premier Chittagong seaport, some 242 km southeast of capital Dhaka, 105 km off Cox's Bazar seaport, about 391 km southeast of Dhaka, and 170 km southeast Mongla port, about 178 km south of Dhaka.

It said maximum sustained wind speed within 54 km of the storm center has risen from 62 kph to 88 kph in gusts and squalls.

Cautionary signal Number 7 in a scale of 10 has been sounded for all maritime ports, it added.

Sources say the South Asian country's government has already started evacuation of thousands of people from Bangladesh's coastlines. Endi