Cyclone Likely to Hit Maharashtra Coast In A Few Hours; Heavy Rain And Gusty Winds Forecast For Konkan And Ghats
Cyclone Likely to Hit Maharashtra Coast In A Few Hours; Heavy Rain And Gusty Winds Forecast For Konkan And Ghats
As pre-monsoon showers continue to lash various parts of Maharashtra, the state now faces a new threat — a potential cyclone forming over the Arabian Sea. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert indicating that a cyclonic system is developing along the coastal regions of North Karnataka and Goa, with the storm expected to move northward and intensify over the next few hours.
According to the IMD, strong winds and turbulent seas are likely, and the next two days may bring heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, especially in the Konkan region and the Western Ghats. Wind speeds are expected to reach 50–60 km/h, accompanied by intense rain in multiple locations. The cyclone-like system is forming in the east-central Arabian Sea, where a low-pressure area is likely to develop due to the prevailing wind patterns.
Latest satellite imagery around 7:30 AM on May 22 shows a dense cloud mass over South Konkan, while the rest of Maharashtra has scattered cloud coverage. These conditions are being closely monitored by meteorological experts, and people in coastal areas are advised to remain alert and take necessary precautions.
Impact on Monsoon Progress?
With monsoon winds already advancing from one side of the Arabian Sea, concerns have been raised about whether this cyclone will disrupt the monsoon’s arrival. However, meteorologists clarify that there is currently no indication that the system will hinder the monsoon’s progress. In fact, the southwest monsoon has already covered much of Sri Lanka and is advancing steadily toward Kerala.
As per the IMD’s latest estimate, favorable conditions are in place, and the monsoon is expected to reach Kerala by Sunday. The winds have also moved through parts of the Maldives, Comorin region, and some areas of the Bay of Bengal.
Residents of Maharashtra, particularly in coastal and hilly regions, are advised to remain cautious as the weather system develops and follow updates from official weather channels.
