Cyclonic storm "Maarutha" over the east-central Bay of Bengal and adjoining area moved further northeastwards.

Around 6:00pm yesterday, the storm was centred about 540km south-southeast of Chittagong port, 455km south-southeast of Cox's Bazar port, 695km south-southeast of Mongla port and 605km south-southeast of Payra port, said a Met office bulletin.

Last night, it was likely to move in a further northeasterly direction and cross Myanmar coast near Sandoway.

Maximum sustained wind speed within 54km of the cyclonic storm centre is about 62 kp/h to 88 kp/h in gusts or squalls. Sea will remain very rough.

Maritime ports of Chittagong, Cox's Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisted distant warning signal number two.

All fishing boats and trawlers over the north Bay and deep sea have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution until further notice so that they can take shelter immediately.