30 Aug 2024 | 03:38 AM UTC
Arabian Sea: Tropical Cyclone 2 tracking south-southwestward in the Arabian Sea as of early Aug. 30
Tropical Cyclone 2 tracking south-southwestward in the Arabian Sea early Aug. 30. Close approach to Pakistan through early Sept. 1.
Tropical Cyclone 2 is tracking south-southwestward in the Arabian Sea, off Gujarat State, India, early Aug. 30. As of 08:00 PKT, the system's center of circulation was approximately 204 km (127 miles) southeast of Karachi, Pakistan.
Forecast models indicate that the weather system will strengthen slightly through early Aug. 31 before weakening again, but remain a cyclonic storm as it tracks westward just south of Pakistan through early Sept. 1. The storm is likely to weaken into a deep depression as it tracks westward towards northeastern Oman through early Sept. 2. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
As of early Aug. 30, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned of widespread rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms across southern Sindh Province through Aug. 31 and across southern Balochistan Province Aug. 31-Sept. 1. Strong winds and rough seas are likely; officials have advised fishermen in Sindh Province to not go out to sea through Aug. 31 and those in Balochistan Province through Sept. 1. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. If weather conditions prove hazardous, localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible.
Inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary port closures are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
