Pakistan braces for cyclone Nilofar

Pakistan is bracing up for cyclonic storm 'Nilofar', originated in the Arabian Sea, which is likely to hit the southern coastal areas this week.

The cyclonic storm has intensified and is more than 1,100 km away from Karachi, the provincial capital of Sindh. According to Pakistan Meteorological department, the cyclone will gradually intensify to 'very severe tropical cyclone', creating rough conditions on the sea from Wednesday to Friday.

Chief meteorologist Tauseef Alam told media that the cyclone will first move west-northwest direction towards the Oman coast and then move north-eastward and is likely to hit coastal areas in Gujarat in India and southeast Sindh in Pakistan. The coastal area of Sindh so far warned of its impact include Nagarparkar, Mithi, Chor, Umerkot, Chachro, Islamkot, Thatta, Jati, Keti Bunder, Badin and Karachi where it will bring light to heavy rain and thundershowers accompanied by strong gusty winds between Wednesday and Friday.

In Balochistan, areas like Gwadar, Pasni, Jivani and Ormara will also experience its impact. Alam said that Nilofar had resemblance with cyclone Phet that hit Sindh in 2010.

The authorities have warned the fishermen to avoid the sea and the people of coastal areas to be ready for evacuation in case of any emergency. Karachi commissioner Shoaib Siddiqui, has sought help from Pakistan Navy, Coast Guards, Maritime Security Agency, Rescue 1299 and fishermen's organisations to bring fishermen back.