Relentless Rains and Cyclonic Threat Batter India's Gujarat and Pakistan's Coast

Heavy rains have caused severe flooding in India's Gujarat state and Pakistan's coastal areas along the Arabian Sea. Thousands of people have been evacuated, with more heavy downpours and strong winds expected. A deep depression is predicted to develop into a cyclonic storm by Friday. Damage and rescue efforts continue.

Heavy rains have wreaked havoc on India's Gujarat state and Pakistan's coastal regions along the Arabian Sea, resulting in significant flooding and widespread displacement. Thousands have been evacuated as authorities brace for a potential cyclonic storm by Friday. Visuals from Reuters television depicted people traversing waist-high waters, partially submerging vehicles and roads.

Officials reported at least 28 fatalities this week in Gujarat due to rain-related incidents. Meteorologists from both India and Pakistan have forecasted more intense downpours and strong winds. Jamnagar resident Prabhu Ram Soni, without electricity for two days, expressed concern for his eight-month-old daughter and his mother, an asthma patient on oxygen support.

Since Sunday, over 18,000 residents were evacuated from coastal cities in Gujarat. The army has joined relief efforts, following recent memories of Cyclone Biparjoy's devastation. The deep depression off Gujarat is poised to transform into a cyclonic storm, according to the India Meteorological Department, although it's expected to drift away from the coast. Across the Arabian Sea, Pakistani officials warn fishermen to avoid the sea through Saturday as flash floods caused power outages in Karachi.

(With inputs from agencies.)