Heavy Cloudiness Over Lower Sindh Region: A cause of concern for Agriculture and Solar Energy

Over the last two weeks, lower Sindh, including Karachi and Hyderabad, has been experiencing heavy cloudiness, with sunshine becoming a rare sight. While some people have enjoyed the calm and relaxed atmosphere, others, especially those in the agriculture and solar energy sectors, are worried about the implications of the prolonged cloudiness.

The Cause of Heavy Cloudiness

The current weather pattern results from the monsoon season, during which moisture from the Indian Ocean penetrates into Sindh and Baluchistan. The strong sea winds associated with the Somalian thrust, an upwelling of cold current from the Somalian coast, interact with the land, condensing low-level moisture. This process leads to the formation of stratocumulus clouds, also known as "sea clouds."

During monsoon, whenever there is a break in the monsoon or the monsoon trough aligns with the foothills of the Himalayas and colder temperature anomalies prevail in the North Arabian Sea, the intensity of sea clouds increases over the Sindh region. This results in prolonged cloudiness and less sunshine, as observed in 2021, 2018, and 2002. Similar conditions have been present over the region for the last two and a half weeks.

Implications for Agriculture

The prolonged cloudiness has adversely affected agricultural activities in the region. The application of fertilizers and pesticides on crops like cotton and rice has been hampered due to less sunshine. There are serious concerns about crop growth due to less photosynthesis during the last two weeks. The conducive environment has increased the threat of pest and disease attacks, particularly in cotton crops.

Impact on Solar Energy

The heavy cloudiness has also impacted solar energy production in the region. The output of solar panels has decreased due to less sunshine, resulting in less electricity production. This has affected both residential and commercial consumers who rely on solar energy.

Forecast

As per forecasts, Somalian currents will continue to affect the region, and similar conditions are expected to prevail, with no respite from cloudiness expected. This indicates that the region's agriculture and solar energy sectors may face ongoing challenges.

In conclusion, heavy cloudiness over lower Sindh has caused concern for the agriculture and solar energy sectors. It is crucial to monitor the situation closely and take necessary measures to mitigate its impact on these sectors.