As a powerful ferocious cyclone brews in the Arabian Sea, Pakistan is preparing for its potential impact. The cyclone, known as Biporjoy, has reached wind speeds of up to 150 kilometers per hour at its center, prompting the government to issue an alert. Although experts from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) believe the cyclone is unlikely to make landfall on the Pakistani coast, it may still affect the Makran coast and bring strong winds to Sindh’s coastline.
Currently, Biporjoy is located approximately 1,120 kilometers away from Karachi, which is about the same distance between Karachi and Lahore. The PMD reports that the system’s wind speed has reached 160 kilometers per hour, with the center experiencing winds of 150 kilometers per hour.
Given the severity of the cyclonic storm, the government has advised relevant authorities in Sindh and Balochistan to remain on high alert. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also issued a warning to fishermen, urging them not to venture into the sea until June 13.
The PMD explains that the cyclone is taking a north-northeast direction and has changed its course over the past 12 hours. With a sea surface temperature of 32 degrees Celsius, the conditions are favorable for cyclone intensification.
There is uncertainty about the cyclone’s track forecast, as some meteorological instruments suggest it will affect the west coast of Oman and Pakistan, while others indicate a potential impact on the coastal belt of Gujarat and Sindh in India.
Fishermen are strongly advised to avoid the open sea starting from June 12 due to hazardous conditions caused by the storm and high tides along the coast.
The PMD predicts that the coasts of Sindh and Makran will experience rain accompanied by thunder starting from the night of June 13. Additionally, strong winds can be expected in the coastal areas of Balochistan and Sindh.
Climate Change Minister Sherry Rehman has urged relevant authorities, especially the Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) of Sindh and Balochistan, to make necessary preparations and ensure public safety.
The NDMA is closely monitoring the situation through the National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC). Local-level needs assessments are being conducted by the PDMAs.
During a special NEOC meeting chaired by NDMA Chairman Lt-Gen Inam Haider Malik, representatives from the PMD, PDMAs of Sindh and Balochistan, K-Electric, and the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) provided updates on the cyclone. While there are currently no major threats to the coastal areas of Pakistan, the cyclonic system may further intensify and potentially drift toward the Makran Coast.
The general public in these areas is advised to stay informed and follow the guidance of local authorities in case of any emergency situation caused by the cyclone.
(WITH INPUT FROM APP)
Published in PakWeb, June 9th, 2023.
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