Cyclone Kyarr

It is mainly because of reckless exploitation of natural resources

In recent years, several cyclonic storms have had minor impact along Pakistan’s coastline. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that a ‘very severe cyclonic storm,’ Kyarr, is developing over the Arabian Sea and is presently centered around 800 km off Karachi. The PMD, however, said the storm would not likely hit any of Pakistan’s coastal areas directly, as it was expected to move towards the coast of Oman over the next few days. Under the influence of the cyclone, scattered rains are expected in lower Sindh and along the Makran coast from Monday till Wednesday. On Monday, parts of DHA Golf Club and several villages inhabited by fishing communities along the coast of Karachi were flooded. Reports say if there are rains that will bring down the temperature considerably in Karachi and other parts of lower Sindh. Rains are expected to be accompanied by strong winds. According to the PMD, the wind intensity is expected to be 230-265 kmph. The Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre will continue to monitor the storm’s movement.

Since cyclones rise from the sea, climate experts have been warning people living close to the sea to take extra precautions during threats of cyclone. The sea level is rising because of global warming and increasing cyclonic activity. In areas prone to cyclones, people are moving away from the sea. Now it is not considered wise to live close to the sea. Heavy rains induced by climate change are now flooding areas hitherto considered safe. In July 2007, several affluent localities in Mumbai were flooded due to heavy rains. People were marooned in these areas and had to be rescued through helicopters. In view of the unusual rains this year and now the threat of cyclone, we can say without being contradicted, ‘the great derangement’ has taken place. It is mainly because of human activity resulting from increasing consumer culture and reckless exploitation of natural resources. Money is moving towards gain in the short term.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 29^th, 2019.

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