Islamabad: The National Emergencies Operation Center has issued an advisory regarding Cyclonic Storm “ASNA,” which is currently located approximately 185 km southwest of Karachi, 210 km south-southeast of Ormara, and 370 km southeast of Gwadar. The storm is moving westward away from Pakistan’s coast and is expected to cause strong winds and heavy rainfall in parts of Sindh and Balochistan.
According to Press Information Department, the cyclone has shifted direction, moving further west and southwest. This movement will result in wind speeds ranging from 60 to 80 km/h along the coast extending up to the Hyderabad, Jamshoro, and Dadu districts. Areas likely to be affected by heavy downpours until tonight include the Karachi division, Badin, Thatta, Sujawal, Hyderabad, T.M Khan, T.A Yar, Matiari, Jamshoro, and Dadu. Additionally, the districts of Hub, Lasbella, Awaran, Keach, and Gwadar in Balochistan are expected to experience similar conditions until tomorrow night.
The advisory warns of potential coastal flooding along the Sindh coast and pluvial flooding in low-lying areas. The expected windstorms may cause damage to crops and loose structures, and there is an increased risk of lightning strikes due to thunderstorms. Disruptions to electricity and other utility services are also possible.
Fishermen in Sindh have been advised not to venture into the sea until August 31, and those in Balochistan have been warned to stay ashore until September 1. The general public is urged to avoid seaside and beach areas, remain cautious of loose structures such as billboards, electrical poles, solar panels, and hoardings, and to stay updated by tracking weather alerts and updates.
Furthermore, the NDMA has launched the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert application, available on the Google Play Store and iOS App Store, to provide timely alerts, advisories, and guidelines to the public. Residents in the affected areas are advised to remain vigilant and follow guidance from local authorities. NDMA has also directed all relevant departments to take necessary precautions to mitigate the potential effects of the cyclone and associated extreme weather conditions.