New Delhi: Cyclone Biparjoy has weakened slightly and is expected to make landfall near Gujarat’s Jakhau Port soon. Authorities, however, said the very severe cyclonic storm still posed a significant risk and could cause widespread damage, according to the weather office.
Nearly one lakh people have been evacuated from 120 coastal villages in the state.
Gujarat’s Kutch will be the most impacted by Cyclone Biparjoy, according to the weather office.
India Meteorological Department (IMD) Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the very severe storm was moving in the northeast direction and will directly hit Kutch and the Pakistan coast. “Kutch will witness extremely heavy rains and gusty winds,” he said. “The wind speed will be 115 to 125 kilometres per hour,” he said, adding that the rains have started and it had become very windy already in the afternoon.
High tidal waves and heavy rainfalls are also expected in all coastal districts of Gujarat after Biparjoy hits the Jakhau port.
The IMD chief said coastal districts like Porbandar and Dwarka would have high wind speeds, very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, and high tides up to three metres. Teams from the national and state disaster response forces were on alert on the coast, particularly in Kutch’s Mandvi and Naliya towns which are likely to be affected. The services and the coast guard were also prepared to assist the local population in relief rehabilitation.
The Army has deployed more than 27 relief columns across Gujarat as well as the forward locations of Mandvi and Dwarka.
The Coast Guard has 15 ships and 7 aircraft ready. Four special Dornier aircraft and 3 helicopters are on standby at the Coast Guard Station in Daman.
Cyclone Biparjoy has the potential to cause significant damage, including uprooting trees and electricity poles. The wind speed associated with the cyclone can also cause structural damage as well. Authorities have urged residents in high alert areas to remain indoors and avoid venturing outside during the storm.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is closely monitoring the cyclone’s progress and providing regular updates. It is essential for residents and authorities to stay informed and follow the instructions and advisories issued by the IMD and local authorities.
The situation remains fluid as Cyclone Biparjoy approaches Gujarat’s coast. As the landfall time is revised and evacuation efforts intensify, the priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents in the affected areas. We will continue to provide live updates on the situation as it develops.
Also read: India, Pakistan evacuate over 180,000 people as cyclone approaches