Cyclone Asna threatens Karachi as PMD declares next 6 hours ‘critical’

This is the first time in 60 years, since 1964, that such a cyclone has formed, says PMD DG Sahibzada Khan

The threat of Cyclone Asna looms over Karachi, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) declaring the next six hours as critical.

Director General of the Meteorological Department, Sahibzada Khan, stated in a press conference that Cyclone Asna has transformed into a deep depression upon reaching Rajasthan.

“This is the first time in 60 years, since 1964, that such a cyclone has formed. Currently, it is located 200 kilometres south of Karachi and may intensify into a tropical storm within the next six hours,” he said.

Khan further noted that the severe low-pressure system is highly likely to evolve into a cyclone within the next six hours. This could result in strong winds and heavy, torrential rain across Karachi Division, Tharparkar, Badin, Thatta, Sujawal, Hyderabad, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Matiari, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Sanghar, Jamshoro, Dadu, and Shaheed Benazirabad districts.

Certain areas of Balochistan might also be affected.

Speaking about the monsoon rains, Khan mentioned that another spell of rain is expected in the upper regions from 2 to 4 September. However, conditions in Sindh and Balochistan are expected to improve, with the monsoon showing more of its effects in the northern areas.

He added, “Despite these rains, water stress will remain in Mangla Dam in the upcoming season.”