KARACHI: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert as the 'Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Biparjoy' approaches the Sindh coast. The cyclone, currently located 247km south of Karachi, is expected to pass through Keti Bandar today. The NDMA reports that the core of the cyclone remains intense, although it has slowed down.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the cyclone is likely to bring dust, thunderstorm-rain, and squally winds of 60-80 Km/hour to several districts, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allayar, Shaheed Benazirabad, and Sanghar on June 15-16. Sea conditions along the Sindh coast may become very rough, with wave heights reaching up to 2-2.5 meters, while the Balochistan coast may experience rough to very rough conditions with wave heights of 2 meters.
The NDMA emphasizes that environmental conditions such as high sea surface temperature, low vertical wind shear, and upper-level divergence are favorable for sustaining the strength of Cyclone Biparjoy. However, it assures that the authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as necessary.
The Federal Minister for Climate Change, Sherry Rehman, stated that while Karachi is not under direct threat from the cyclone, tidal waves, rainfall, and duststorms are expected in the city. As a precautionary measure, the operation of small aircraft from Karachi International Airport has been suspended, ensuring the safety of the people. The decision regarding commercial flights will be made following a detailed review of the cyclone and weather conditions with input from the PMD.
In response to the possible adverse impact of Cyclone Biparjoy, the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has suspended the supply of gas to all industries, including power generation units, fertilizer sectors, and CNG stations. This decision has been made to combat the potential shortage of natural gas and RLNG, aligning with the instructions from the federal government.
The NDMA advises fishermen not to venture into the open sea until the cyclone passes over by June 17.
For further updates and information, the public is encouraged to stay tuned to official announcements from the National Disaster Management Authority and the Pakistan Meteorological Department.
