Murtaza Wahab. File | Photo credit: X/@murtazawahab1
Pakistani authorities warned of heavy rains and strong winds in the country’s coastal areas on Saturday (August 31, 2024). Cyclonic storm over Arabian Sea,
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) advisory, “Cyclonic storm Asna, which formed over northeast Arabian Sea off Sindh coast, has moved further westwards during the past nine hours and is now about 200 km southwest of Karachi.” It also said that the storm system is likely to move further west-southwestwards.
Under its impact, rain-thundershowers accompanied by gusty winds are likely in Karachi division, Badin, Thatta, Sujawal, Hyderabad, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allah Yar, Matiari, Jamshoro and Dadu districts of Sindh till August 31, the PMD said.
Effect of cyclonic storm Asana in Kutch, rain continues in Gujarat
Similar weather conditions are forecast in Balochistan’s Hub, Lasbela, Awaran, Kech and Gwadar districts till September 1. It also said that heavy rains could lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas of Balochistan’s Makran coast.
The PMD has warned that the sea condition is likely to be rough or very rough and strong winds up to 80 km/h are likely. It has advised fishermen from Sindh not to venture into the sea on Saturday (August 31, 2024) and fishermen from Balochistan till tomorrow (Sunday).
Cyclone Asna has no major impact on Gujarat, moves towards Oman
The PMD’s cyclone warning centre in Karachi is closely monitoring the system. The concerned authorities are requested to keep them updated through PMD’s advisories. PMD chief Sahibzada Khan said in a press conference on Friday: “This is the first time in 60 years since 1964 that such a cyclone has formed.”
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab asked residents to avoid “unnecessary movement”. “I urge Karachi residents, especially bike riders, to avoid unnecessary movement. Everyone should stay safe and call 1339 in case of any emergency,” he said in a post on X.