Coastal areas brace for Cyclone Remal’s impact
In Shyamnagar upazila of Satkhira, many people were seen voluntarily repairing weak embankments overnight
Cyclone Remal is expected to make landfall on Bangladesh's coast tonight (26 May), bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and potentially destructive storm surges.
The storm's leading edge began impacting the region this morning, with intensity gradually increasing. Satkhira, Khulna, and Bagerhat are forecast to experience the strongest winds by midnight. Storm surges reaching 8-12 feet above normal tides could inundate coastal areas.
Concerns center on vulnerable embankments, particularly in Satkhira district where many Water Development Board (WDB) structures are in poor condition. Local residents have begun reinforcing these embankments in anticipation of the storm surge.
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WDB officials said water levels have elevated near the Sundarbans and are working to strengthen at-risk sections of the coastal protection embankment surrounding Shyamnagar.
Preparations for damage control
Authorities in Khulna, Satkhira, and Bagerhat districts have readied a combined 1,149 cyclone shelters, with the capacity to house over 758,680 people.
Khulna district alone has prepared 604 shelters for 315,180 residents. Additionally, Satkhira has stockpiled Tk5.25 lakh for emergency relief efforts and mobilised 6,000 volunteers alongside emergency services.
The Sundarbans are a major concern. Forest officials in Satkhira Range have instructed caution at all patrol posts and urged fishermen to return to shore. Rescue efforts are planned if necessary. Bagerhat's East Sundarbans Division has implemented additional safety measures at wildlife breeding centres and ordered all staff to remain on duty.
Mongla Port suspends operations
To safeguard vessels and cargo, Mongla Port Authority has halted all operations. Six foreign ships are currently docked, and authorities have directed them to relocate to safe anchorages within the channel. The port's own vessels have been secured in existing berths. Local cargo has also been moved outside the channel for added security.
