Thousands rush to shelters as Cyclone Remal floods 21 villages in Cox’s Bazar

Cyclone Remal has caused the sea to surge, flooding 21 villages in Cox's Bazar with high tides since 6 pm Sunday.

The affected villages include Naziratek, Kutubdiapara, and Samitipara in Ward 1, and North Nuniachata in Ward 2 of the municipality, Prothom Alo reported.

Thousands of residents, along with their livestock and belongings, are heading to safer locations in the town, according to the report.

Several schools, public halls, and some hotels have been opened as shelters, the Bangla daily added.

As the cyclone was approaching Bangladesh, the Meteorological Department had issued danger signal no 9 for Cox’s Bazar.

According to the forecast, the cyclone could cause sea levels to rise by up to 12 feet, potentially flooding parts of the district.

Due to the stormy weather, authorities also suspended flights at Cox's Bazar Airport for the entire day.

Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Shaheen Imran was quoted by the Bangla daily as saying that at least 200,000 people had taken shelter in nine upazilas of Cox's Bazar, with efforts underway to evacuate another 300,000.