Approaching Cyclone Threatens Pakistan's Coastline: Thousands Evacuated
Introduction:
As a cyclone named Biparjoy looms over the Arabian Sea, the Pakistan coastline is bracing for its impact. With gales of up to 150 kilometers per hour predicted, the cyclone has been categorized as a "very severe cyclonic storm" by government weather monitors. The approaching disaster has led to the evacuation of thousands of people from coastal areas in both Pakistan and India's Gujarat state. This blog post provides an overview of the situation, highlighting the measures taken to safeguard communities, the expected effects of the cyclone, and the role of climate change in intensifying such extreme weather events.
Evacuation Efforts:
In response to the imminent threat, authorities have initiated mass evacuation efforts along the Pakistan coastline. In Sindh, approximately 20,000 people have already been moved to safer locations, while a similar number have been assisted in Gujarat state. The local governments have set up shelters in schools and colleges to accommodate the evacuees. Despite initial reluctance, continuous efforts have convinced people to prioritize their safety.
Impending Landfall and Expected Impact:
India's Meteorological Department has predicted that the cyclone will make landfall near the Indian port of Jakhau on Thursday evening, accompanied by powerful winds reaching up to 150 kilometers per hour. Along the Gujarat coast, fishing activities have been suspended, and the Indian Coast Guard has evacuated personnel from an oil drilling ship. The cyclone's trajectory indicates a landfall between Keti Bandar in southeast Sindh and the Indian Gujarat coastline.
Areas Likely to be Affected:
The cyclone is expected to affect several areas, including Thatta, Badin, Sujawal, Tharparkar, Karachi, Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, Hyderabad, Ormara, Tando Allahyar Khan, and Tando Mohammad Khan. While there is no direct threat to Karachi, rainfall and strong winds are anticipated. Sindh's entire coastline is at risk, with significant rainfall of 300-400 millimeters and waves as high as 12 feet expected at Keti Bandar. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has emphasized the vulnerability of traditional mud and straw homes, especially those housing economically disadvantaged communities.
Preventive Measures and Climate Change:
Authorities in both Pakistan and India have taken preemptive measures to minimize the cyclone's impact. The Sindh local government has put relevant departments on high alert, deployed dewatering pumps, and initiated the cleaning of rain drains. In Karachi, billboards and panels are being removed, and dilapidated buildings are being evacuated.
It is important to note that these cyclonic storms are part of a larger pattern of extreme weather events linked to climate change. Scientists have warned that global warming contributes to the increasing intensity of storms. While Pakistan's greenhouse gas emissions are relatively low, the country is highly susceptible to climate-related disasters. The devastating monsoon rains and floods of the previous year bear witness to this vulnerability.
Conclusion:
As Pakistan and India prepare for the arrival of Cyclone Biparjoy, efforts to ensure the safety of coastal communities are underway. Mass evacuations have been carried out, and preventive measures have been implemented to mitigate the cyclone's impact. However, the looming threat underscores the urgent need for international cooperation in addressing climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Only through collective action can we hope to limit the frequency and severity of such extreme weather events, safeguard vulnerable populations, and build resilient communities.