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The southern Pakistani city of Karachi, situated on the Arabian Sea coast, is bracing for the potential impact of Cyclone Asna. This looming storm has triggered a mix of anxiety and reliance on a centuries-old legend. Devotees of Abdullah Shah Ghazi, the city's patron saint, believe his presence and a historical legacy surrounding him shield Karachi from cyclones. The city has witnessed numerous instances where cyclones anticipated to strike the city veered away, reinforcing this faith. This belief, however, clashes with the scientific explanations offered by meteorologists and climatologists.
Abdullah Shah Ghazi, a Sufi Muslim saint who lived in the eighth century, is believed to have arrived in Sindh, where Karachi is located, along with his brother. His shrine, built on a sandy hill in Karachi's Clifton area, draws devotees from across Pakistan seeking his blessings. Local folklore tells of Ghazi halting a cyclone by filling his bowl with water. While this tale is deeply ingrained in the city's culture, the science behind Karachi's seeming avoidance of direct cyclone hits offers a different perspective.
Scientists attribute Karachi's fortunate history to the prevailing conditions in the Arabian Sea. Fahad Saeed, a climate scientist, points out the typically calm waters of the region, which are not conducive to the development of strong cyclones. Moreover, the easterly winds prevalent in the area tend to blow away any potential cyclone formations. While depressions may form, they often remain shallow, lacking the strength to evolve into powerful storms. This combination of factors creates a less cyclone-prone environment compared to other regions.
While the legend of Abdullah Shah Ghazi provides comfort and a sense of spiritual security for the people of Karachi, scientific explanations offer a more grounded perspective on the city's resilience. However, the combination of scientific understanding and cultural beliefs is what ultimately shapes the response to the impending threat of Cyclone Asna in Karachi.
Source: Pakistan’s storm Asna: Legend of the Karachi saint who can stop cyclones