Evacuations are in progress as Cyclone Biparjoy approaches the coastal belt of Sindh. The latest alert from the Pakistan Meteorological Department’s Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre reveals that the cyclone has shifted further north-northwestward and has downgraded in intensity from an "extremely severe cyclonic storm” to a "very severe cyclonic storm.” Currently situated approximately 410km south of Karachi and 400km south of Thatta, the cyclone is anticipated to make landfall between Pakistan’s Keti Bandar and Indian Gujarat on June 15.
Various districts, including Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Tharparkar, Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, Karachi, Hyderabad, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Shaheed Benazirabad, and Sanghar, are expected to experience dust storms, thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong squally winds of 80-100km/hr from June 13 to 17. These high-intensity winds have the potential to cause damage to vulnerable structures such as kutcha houses and solar panels. Additionally, a storm surge of 3-3.5 meters (8-12 feet) is expected at the landfall point, which may result in flooding of low-lying settlements.
Authorities, including the Sindh government and the Defence Housing Authority (DHA), have shared guidelines and precautionary measures to be followed before, during, and after the cyclone. Recommendations include staying calm, keeping mobile phones charged, securing valuables and important documents in waterproof containers, preparing emergency kits with essential supplies, stocking up on food, water, and medical provisions, and securing loose objects. DHA has advised residents to voluntarily evacuate, secure solar panels and fibreglass tanks, and follow instructions for protecting buildings and structures.
During the cyclone, it is advised to switch off electrical mains and gas supply if indoors, keep doors and windows shut, rely only on official warnings, and ensure the safety of children. If outdoors, individuals should seek safe shelter, avoid entering damaged buildings, and watch out for hazards like broken electric wires and poles.
Fishermen are strictly advised not to venture into the sea, and a ban on coastal activities is in effect until June 17. The Sindh Information Minister has directed the population residing in low-lying areas to move to relief camps, while farmers and cattle herders are urged to take necessary precautions to safeguard their crops and livestock from the adverse effects of the cyclone.
Emergency and rescue vehicles have been strategically placed in the Defence Housing Authority to facilitate timely response and assistance.
Emergency contact details
Provincial Disaster Management Authority helpline: 0335-5557362
Control Room South (021) 99205628
Control Room Korangi (021) 99333926
Control Room Keamari (021) 99333176
Control Room Malir (021) 99248916
Control Room Badin (0297) 920013
Control Room Thatta (0298) 920061-3
Control Room Sujawal (0298) 510833
DHA helpline: 1092, 0323-2652384, 021-3540009, 021-111-589-589
