The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning to the public, urging them to stay away from shorelines as Cyclone Biparjoy approaches the coastal areas of Pakistan and India. With its current location approximately 760 kilometers south of Karachi, the cyclone poses a significant threat to these regions.
In response to the impending cyclone, the NDMA has advised people to follow the guidance of local authorities in case of any emergency situation. To reinforce the importance of safety measures, the Karachi commissioner has already imposed a ban on beach access, fishing, sailing, swimming, and bathing within Karachi’s territorial limits.
However, despite the government’s directives, a significant number of people were observed at Karachi’s Seaview, defying the orders to stay away from the shore. Karachi South Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Syed Asad Raza clarified that while there are restrictions on swimming and fishing in the open sea, visiting the beach is still permitted.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has officially declared Cyclone Biparjoy as an “extremely severe cyclonic storm.” It is currently situated around 760 kilometers south of Karachi, 740 kilometers south of Thatta, and 840 kilometers southeast of Ormara. Concerns have been raised regarding the number of people exposed to the cyclone’s potential impact.
The Pacific Disaster Centre (PDC) reported that approximately 1.38 million people from both Pakistan and India are at risk, with 305,755 among the vulnerable population. The PDC forecasts sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour, with gusts up to 232 kilometers per hour.
Based on the latest updates from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), there are significant changes in the cyclone’s projected path and impact. The PMD now predicts that the cyclone will continue moving northward until the morning of June 14.
However, after that, it will change its course and move northeastward. It is expected to make landfall on June 15 between Keti Bandar in southeast Sindh and the coast of Gujarat in India. The cyclone is now categorized as a “very severe cyclonic storm.”
The cyclone brings with it powerful winds, with sustained surface speeds ranging between 150 and 160 kilometers per hour. Near the center of the cyclone, gusts can reach up to 180 kilometers per hour. These strong winds can cause extensive damage to infrastructure and pose a significant threat to human safety.
The sea conditions associated with this cyclone are described as “phenomenal.” The waves in the affected areas are reaching heights of 35 to 40 feet. Such high waves can lead to coastal flooding, erosion, and dangerous maritime conditions. It is crucial for residents and authorities in the coastal regions to take necessary precautions to mitigate the potential risks posed by this cyclone.
The PMD has issued warnings about the potential impacts of the cyclone. The latest predictions from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) indicate the likelihood of widespread wind-dust/thunderstorm rain in several districts.
From June 13 to 17, Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Tharparker, and Umerkot districts are expected to experience heavy rainfall accompanied by squally winds of 80-100 kilometers per hour. These weather conditions can result in localized flooding, damage to infrastructure, and potential disruptions to daily activities.
Residents in these districts should stay alert and follow the guidance provided by local authorities to ensure their safety and well-being during this period. It is essential to stay updated with the latest weather advisories and warnings from official sources such as the PMD and local disaster management authorities.
Similarly, Karachi, Hyderabad, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allayar, and Mirpurkhas districts are likely to experience dust/thunderstorm-rain with occasional heavy falls and squally winds of 60-80 kilometers per hour from June 13 or 14 to 16. In light of these predictions, the PMD advises fishermen to avoid venturing into the open sea until June 17, as the Arabian Sea conditions are expected to become rough with high tides along the coast.
Acknowledging the potential dangers, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah assured the public that the government is fully prepared to handle the impact of the cyclone. Measures are being taken to evacuate vulnerable families and secure loose structures in those districts. The public has been strongly urged to avoid beaches during the cyclone, and the government is closely monitoring the situation and providing assistance where needed.
In conclusion, the authorities are maintaining a state of vigilance and preparedness for any potential outcome. They emphasize the importance of exercising caution and planning to effectively deal with the potential effects of Cyclone Biparjoy.
