Pakistan Braces for Cyclone Shakti as Storm Threatens Coastal Areas
Pakistan's Meteorological Department warns of approaching Cyclone Shakti, with coastal areas preparing for rough seas and heavy rainfall. Storm intensifies as it moves closer to southern coastline.
Satellite imagery showing Cyclone Shakti approaching Pakistan's southern coastline with weather monitoring data overlay
Cyclone Shakti Advances Towards Pakistan's Coast with Growing Intensity
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a critical weather alert as Cyclone Shakti approaches Pakistan's southern coastline, positioning itself approximately 360 kilometers south of Karachi. This development comes as Pakistan's coastal infrastructure faces its first major weather challenge of the season.
Weather Impact and Safety Measures
The cyclonic system, which evolved from a deep depression into a full-fledged storm, is expected to intensify further within 24 hours. Currently centered at Latitude 21.7N and Longitude 66.8E, the storm's trajectory suggests a west-northwestward movement before shifting west-southwestwards into the central Arabian Sea.
As Pakistan's economic centers prepare for potential disruption, several regions including Tharparkar, Umerkot, Badin, and Karachi are expected to experience varying degrees of rainfall and thunderstorms.
Regional Impact Assessment
The meteorological forecast indicates:
- Light to moderate rainfall across Sindh and Balochistan
- Temperatures in Karachi ranging between 32-34°C
- Wind speeds of 40-50 km/h near coastal areas
- Potential gusts up to 125 km/h near the cyclone's center
Maritime Safety Advisory
The PMD has issued strict warnings to maritime vessels, with advanced monitoring systems being deployed to track the cyclone's movement. Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into open seas until October 5 due to extremely dangerous conditions.
Authorities have emphasized the need to secure weak structures, billboards, and essential infrastructure against potential damage from strong winds and heavy rainfall. The sea conditions in the central north Arabian Sea are expected to remain severe between October 3 and 6 as Cyclone Shakti continues its development.
Hamza Qureshi
Hamza Qureshi is a journalist rooted in national identity, writing with a focus on Pakistan’s strategic interests and moral compass. His work highlights the nation’s Islamic heritage, supports the integrity of its institutions, and defends the Kashmiri cause with clarity and restraint. Without sensationalism, he navigates regional tensions with a firm yet composed voice.