WHEN it comes to dealing with the effects of extreme weather phenomena — storms, floods, cyclones etc — the state’s response has been patchy at best. However, with some preparation and planning, the potential risk that natural disasters pose to human lives and infrastructure can be minimised.

Keeping this in mind, the state has apparently become active in preparing for the arrival of cyclone Nilofar, which was chugging its way through the Arabian Sea at the time of writing and is expected in these parts between today and Friday.

As per the weatherman, the waters off the Sindh and Balochistan coasts are expected to be very rough during this period while coastal communities can expect heavy rains and strong winds.

The southern districts of Sindh, including Karachi, as well as the coastal towns of Balochistan, are all expected to bear the brunt of Nilofar.

In anticipation of the turbulent weather conditions, fishing vessels have been called back to the harbour while the National Disaster Management Authority has started coordination efforts involving different departments with the intention of organising an effective response should an emergency arise.

Pakistan’s coast has weathered a number of storms, with 1999’s cyclone, which claimed hundreds of lives, perhaps being the deadliest.

Cyclone Gonu in 2007 also caused considerable damage. It is hoped lessons have been learnt from these experiences and the state is ready to cope. Without sounding alarmist and spreading panic, the authorities must have evacuation and rescue plans ready and share these with coastal communities through TV and radio.

Remote communities, especially in Sindh’s Indus delta region and on the Balochistan coast, need to be contacted by the local authorities and evacuated if necessary. And if there is damage caused by the cyclone, the affected communities should be cared for in the aftermath of the cyclone and not be left to fend for themselves.

A coordinated disaster response both before the cyclone hits and after it strikes can save lives and mitigate the fury of nature to some extent.

Published in Dawn, October 29th , 2014