Cyclone Asna, a rare cyclonic storm in the monsoon season, has intensified over the Arabian Sea and is now approximately 200 kilometers southwest of Karachi. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reports that Asna is moving west-southwestwards, posing potential threats to Sindh and Balochistan’s coastal regions. Asna is the first cyclone in August in the Arabian Sea since 1976, named by Pakistan, meaning “The One To Be Acknowledged Or Praised.”
Despite moving away from Pakistan’s coastline, the cyclone has led to widespread rain, thunderstorms, and heavy winds in Karachi, Badin, Thatta, Sujawal, Hyderabad, and other districts. With wind speeds reaching 80 km/h, the Met Office warns of rough sea conditions and advises fishermen in Sindh and Balochistan to avoid going to sea until September 1.
Asna Impacts Coastal Areas and Infrastructure
Cyclone Asna has already affected port operations in Karachi, with high winds toppling several empty containers at the South Asia Port Terminal. Fortunately, no injuries or financial losses have been reported, and port operations remain largely uninterrupted. In the broader region, heavy rainfall and storm surges have caused waterlogging in low-lying areas, particularly along the Makran coast.
Authorities have warned of possible flooding due to continuous rainfall, with Sindh’s districts, including Karachi, Jamshoro, and Dadu, experiencing significant disruptions. Rain-related incidents have claimed nine lives in Sindh and 13 in Balochistan, while over 30 people have been injured due to flooding and landslides. In Upper Dir, a tragic landslide caused by incessant rainfall killed 13 members of a family.
Precautionary Measures and Ongoing Monitoring of Asna
In response to the cyclone, schools in Karachi and Hyderabad were closed on Friday, and a ban on fishing and other sea-related activities was imposed. The PMD’s Cyclone Warning Center in Karachi continues to monitor the situation closely and issue timely updates. Director General Mahr Sahibzad Khan and Chief Meteorologist Dr. Sardar Sarfaraz highlighted the rarity of Cyclone Asna during the monsoon, emphasizing the importance of ongoing vigilance.
Dr. Sarfaraz noted that while the cyclone is expected to weaken at sea, Balochistan’s coastal areas could face more intense rainfall than Sindh. “We expect it to weaken, but coastal areas of Balochistan will likely experience heavier rains,” he said. Authorities are prepared for further rain-induced disruptions and are coordinating with local agencies to mitigate the cyclone’s impact.
Wider Regional Effects and Humanitarian Concerns
The impact of Cyclone Asna is not limited to Pakistan. In India, at least 31 people have died due to rain-related incidents, and authorities have evacuated over 8,700 people from Gujarat state. In Pakistan, the heavy rains have damaged infrastructure and displaced thousands. In Balochistan, flash floods have swept away 13 people, two of whom remain missing, while several homes have been destroyed.
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As the cyclone moves away, residents in coastal areas remain vigilant, preparing for possible continued heavy rains and flooding. The PMD remains on high alert, continuously issuing updates to ensure public safety and preparedness as Cyclone Asna gradually weakens.