The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issued a warning on Sunday, cautioning that Very Severe Cyclonic Storm (VSCS) Biparjoy has gained momentum and escalated into an Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm (ESCS) in the Arabian Sea, moving northward over the past 12 hours.
Current Location and Future Trajectory
Biparjoy is approximately 760 kilometers south of Karachi, 740 kilometers south of Thatta, and 840 kilometers southeast of Ormara. The storm is situated near latitude 18.1°N and longitude 67.5°E. According to Dr. Sardar Sarfaraz, PMD’s chief meteorologist in Sindh, Biparjoy will continue its northward trajectory. The storm’s maximum sustained surface winds reach 150-160 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching 180 kilometers around the system’s center.
The PMD’s statement detailed that optimal environmental conditions, such as sea surface temperature of 30-32°C, low vertical wind shear, and upper-level divergence, are aiding the system in maintaining its intensity. Sea conditions around the storm’s center are extraordinary, with a maximum wave height of 35 to 40 feet.
The PMD anticipates that, guided by the prevailing upper-level steering winds, ESCS Biparjoy will likely continue its northward path until June 14. Afterward, it is predicted to recurve northeastward and land between Keti Bandar (Southeast Sindh) and the Indian Gujarat coast on the afternoon of June 15 as a VSCS. The PMD’s cyclone warning center in Karachi will closely monitor the system and issue updates as necessary.
Expected Weather Conditions and Advisory
The weather in Karachi is expected to fluctuate between 35°C to 37°C, with the minimum temperature predicted to be 29°C. The mercury may rise to 40°C on Monday. Despite the current humidity level of 76% and wind speeds of five kilometers, the weather is expected to remain hot and humid in the next 24 hours.
However, with Biparjoy’s possible approach to the southeast Sindh coast, there may be widespread wind-dust/thunderstorm rain with some very heavy/extremely heavy falls and squally winds of 80-100 kilometers per hour in Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Tharparker, and Umerkot districts during June 13-17.
Safety Measures in Karachi
Due to the potential threat posed by the cyclone, the Karachi administration has prohibited activities such as fishing, swimming, sailing, and bathing at the city’s beaches until the storm has passed. Despite this prohibition, some people and fishermen were observed at the beach and sea. Fishermen have been advised to stay away from the sea until June 17.
Due to the harsh weather conditions, flight operations across the country have been significantly affected. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) reported multiple flight delays and diversions. Power supply in certain areas of Multan remained suspended for three hours following a storm.
