Heavy rains and strong winds are disrupting shipping operations in the Bay of Bengal, forcing several ships to abandon their anchorage along the Bangladesh coast. While the port of Chattogram remains operational, many smaller vessels are seeking shelter due to forecasts indicating that adverse weather will persist for at least another day.
As of midday on May 30, nearly eight inches of rain had fallen in the past 24 hours, adding to over nine inches from the previous two days. Winds reached 30 to 40 mph, with forecasts warning of a two-to-four-foot tidal surge. Flooding and damage, including blown-off tin roofs, have been reported, causing delays at the main airport and prompting officials to issue warnings for both ocean and inland areas.
Container operations at Chattogram are ongoing but slowed, while lightering operations have largely ceased. Reports indicate that at least four vessels have been driven ashore, including the tugboat Navimar-3 and the cargo barge Mermaid-3. The Al Herem, a smaller tanker, also ran aground after dragging its anchor. Weather conditions are expected to remain severe until at least May 31.
