Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan, is bracing itself as the Extremely Severe Cyclone Biparjoy edges closer.
Based on the latest monitoring of international forecasting models, TC BIPARJOY, currently classified as a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm (VSCS), is expected to strengthen and become an Extreme Severe Cyclonic Storm (ESCS) within the next 24 hours. The cyclone is currently situated approximately 840 km south of Karachi and is moving in a north-northeastward direction, with sustained winds of 130-140 km/h and gusts reaching 150 km/h. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), Tropical cyclone BIPARJOY may follow one of three possible tracks, potentially affecting the coastal areas of Pakistan.
The anticipated impacts of the cyclone include heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds in the southern and southeastern regions of Sindh, encompassing cities such as Karachi, Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Tharparkar, and Mirpurkhas. These effects are expected to begin from the evening of June 13 onwards. Vulnerable structures may sustain damage due to the powerful winds, while storm surge and urban flooding are probable along the coastline. Sea conditions will be rough to very rough, accompanied by high-intensity squalls, which will pose risks to fishermen, discouraging them from venturing into the open sea.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in collaboration with the PMD, Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMA) of Sindh and Balochistan, Pakistan Navy, Pakistan Maritime Security Authority (PMSA), and Pakistan Coast Guards (PCG), is issuing advisories and providing guidelines to all relevant stakeholders at national and provincial levels. These measures aim to promote proactive preparedness and mitigation actions.
The NDMA’s National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) is actively monitoring the situation and sharing information with stakeholders and the public through web-based projections of Tropical syndrome BIPARJOY’s predicted tracks and its potential impacts on coastal areas.
The National Disaster Management Authority posted a video showing the storm’s trajectory on Monday, adding that the storm was ‘extremely severe’ and evolving.
Amidst this catastrophic situation, the Sindh Minister Murad Ali Shah is placing high importance on precautionary measures. It is crucial to stay informed, follow evacuation instructions, secure your property, stock up on essentials, remain indoors, avoid flooded areas and keep emergency contacts readily available. The NDMA urges the public to stay informed and heed the official updates and warnings issued by relevant authorities. Following these instructions will help individuals safeguard themselves and their properties from the potential impacts of TC BIPARJOY.
