Cyclone ‘Shakti’ Nears Arabian Sea: IMD Warns Heavy Rain for Mumbai, Pune, Thane from Oct 4–7
Cyclone ‘Shakti’ Nears Arabian Sea: IMD Warns Heavy Rain for Mumbai, Pune, Thane from Oct 4–7
IMD forecasts heavy rainfall across Mumbai, Thane, Pune, and interior districts from October 4–7
Maharashtra is on high alert as Cyclone Shakti, the first cyclonic storm of the season in the Arabian Sea, moves closer to the state’s coastline. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas across several districts from October 4 to 7.
The storm, named Shakti by Sri Lanka, has intensified and is currently positioned about 300 km west of Dwarka and 360 km west of Porbandar. According to the IMD, the system is expected to strengthen further into a severe cyclonic storm while largely remaining offshore.
Coastal Districts Under Warning
A cyclone warning has been issued for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts until October 7. Wind speeds of 45–55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, were recorded along the northern Maharashtra coast on Thursday, with conditions likely to intensify in the coming days. Sea conditions are already reported to be “very rough,” prompting authorities to caution coastal residents and fishermen against venturing into the sea.
Interior Maharashtra to See Heavy Showers
The IMD has also forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall over interior regions, particularly East Vidarbha and parts of Marathwada. North Konkan faces the risk of waterlogging and flooding in low-lying areas due to dense cloud formation and moisture inflow. Meteorologists have warned of potential disruption to transport, daily activities, and possible road blockages.
Preparedness Measures Activated
In response, the Maharashtra government has directed all district administrations to activate disaster management systems, issue public advisories, and prepare evacuation measures for vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas. Officials have also urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the warning period.
While the cyclone’s exact trajectory will become clearer in the coming days, authorities have stressed that caution and preparedness remain essential as the state braces for heavy rainfall and strong winds through the first week of October.
