Gujarat, India - The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a storm surge warning for the coastal areas of Gujarat as very severe cyclonic storm Biparjoy poses a significant threat. The IMD warns that low-lying regions in districts such as Kachchh, Devbhumi Dwarka, Porbandar, Jamnagar, and Morbi may face inundation due to the cyclone's potential to trigger massive storm surges.
While Biparjoy has slightly weakened, experts caution that it could regain strength, leading to extensive devastation in Gujarat. The Met department predicts severe consequences, including the total destruction of thatched houses and significant damage to kutcha houses in several districts, including Kachchh, Devbhumi Dwarka, Porbandar, Jamnagar, Morbi, Junagarh, and Rajkot. Power and communication poles may be uprooted, railways disrupted, and standing crops, plantations, and orchards damaged.
The very severe cyclonic storm Biparjoy is currently located in the Northeast Arabian Sea, approximately 290 km southwest of Gujarat's Jakhau Port. It is expected to move in a north-northeast direction and make landfall between Mandvi in Gujarat and Karachi in Pakistan by the evening of June 15. The maximum sustained wind speed is projected to be around 125-135 kmph, with gusts up to 150 kmph.
The cyclone system is forecasted to bring light to moderate rainfall to most coastal areas of Gujarat, with heavy to very heavy rainfall and extremely heavy falls at isolated places. The intensity of rainfall is expected to increase on June 15, particularly in Kachchh, Devbhumi Dwarka, and Jamnagar. Porbandar, Rajkot, Morbi, and Junagarh districts may also experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, while Saurashtra and north Gujarat regions may see heavy rainfall in isolated areas.
In preparation for the cyclone, Western Railway has announced the cancellation or short-termination of approximately 95 trains running through, originating from, or terminating in the coastal areas of Gujarat until June 15.
Authorities in Gujarat have taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of the population. Around 30,000 individuals residing in coastal areas have been relocated to temporary shelters in anticipation of the cyclone's landfall near Jakhau port in the Kutch district on Thursday.
As the situation evolves, it is crucial for residents in the affected areas to stay updated with official announcements and follow the instructions of local authorities. The IMD continues to monitor the progress of the cyclone and issue regular updates to ensure the safety and well-being of the population.
Disclaimer: The above article provides information based on available data and official statements from the Indian Meteorological Department. The situation may change, and readers are advised to refer to official sources and follow local authorities' guidance for the most accurate and up-to-date information.