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Karachi is on high alert as the city prepares for the arrival of a potential cyclone, which could bring severe weather conditions including heavy rainfall and strong winds. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast that a deep depression over the Rann of Kutch, India, is likely to intensify into a Cyclonic Storm (CS) as it moves towards the northeast Arabian Sea and the Sindh coast by Friday morning.
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has called on residents to limit unnecessary movement, particularly advising bike riders to stay off the roads due to the worsening weather conditions. In a statement on X, Wahab urged citizens to stay safe and use emergency services if needed, emphasizing that “there will be heavier rainfall with strong winds” in the coming hours.
The PMD has issued a warning of widespread rain and thunderstorms across Karachi and other districts in Sindh, including Tharparker, Badin, Thatta, Sujawal, and Hyderabad. The forecast predicts scattered heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated areas potentially experiencing extremely heavy downpours. Similar weather patterns are expected in parts of Balochistan, including Hub, Lasbella, and Gwadar, from August 30 to September 1.
Authorities are concerned about the potential for pluvial flooding in low-lying areas and flash floods in hill torrents and local nullahs. The PMD has cautioned that sea conditions could become rough with squally winds reaching speeds of 50-60 km/hour, gusting up to 70 km/hour. Fishermen in Sindh and Balochistan are advised to stay ashore until the weather conditions improve.
The Chief Meteorologist of PMD, Sardar Sarfaraz, indicated that if the system develops into a cyclonic storm, it will be named “Asna,” meaning “highest” and “brighter.” This development would be a rare event for the monsoon season, with such weather systems being unusual for Sindh’s coastal belt.
In response to the cyclone alert, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has directed all relevant departments to enhance their preparedness. This includes ensuring the readiness of hospitals, advising the Fisheries Department to inform fishermen, and instructing the Irrigation Department to monitor water reservoirs.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide alert, anticipating heavy rains and thunderstorms across Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan. They have advised all relevant authorities to take necessary precautions and mobilize resources to manage the impacts of potential flooding and heavy rains.
The Commissioner of Karachi has announced that all public and private schools in the city will be closed on August 30 as a precautionary measure. This decision aims to protect students and staff from the anticipated severe weather conditions. The public is advised to remain vigilant and adhere to instructions from local authorities to ensure their safety.
The intense rainfall has already caused disruptions in various regions, with both Pakistan and neighboring India facing significant challenges due to the ongoing monsoon season.
