CAA Issues Alert for Jinnah International Airport in Anticipation of Cyclone Biparjoy’s Approach
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has raised an alert for Jinnah International Airport in Karachi as Cyclone Biparjoy draws nearer to the coastal regions of Pakistan and India. The cyclone is projected to intensify into an “extremely severe cyclonic storm” within the next 24 hours.
In response, the CAA has advised relevant authorities to maintain a high level of vigilance and implement precautionary measures to address any potential emergency situations during the cyclone. They have specifically instructed the addition of extra weight to small aircraft and helicopters to enhance their ability to withstand strong winds.
Furthermore, the electrical department has been directed to repair any damaged wires prior to the arrival of inclement weather and ensure that beacon lights at the airport’s control tower and other tall structures are in optimal condition.
The cyclone is expected to bring heavy rainfall to several districts in Sindh, including Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Tharparker, and Umerkot, from June 13th to 17th. These areas may experience substantial rainfall accompanied by strong winds.
In Karachi, Hyderabad, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, and Mirpurkhas districts, the cyclone is anticipated to bring thunderstorms, rain, and gusty winds of 60-80 km/hour from June 13th/14th to June 16th.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the current location of the cyclone is near latitude 18.1°N and longitude 67.5°E. It is expected to continue moving in a north-northeast direction for the next 24 hours before shifting towards the northeast on June 14th. The cyclone is projected to make landfall between Keti Bandar (southeast Sindh) and the Indian Gujarat coast on June 15th as a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm (VSCS).