The first cyclonic storm of the post-monsoon season in the Arabian Sea, Cyclone Shakhti, has strengthened into a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds reaching 100 kmph and gusts even higher, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed on Saturday.
Currently located around 420 km off Dwarka, Gujarat, the storm is expected to move west-southwestwards towards the northwest and adjoining west-central Arabian Sea before recurving east-northeastwards on October 6. IMD forecasts a gradual weakening after October 7.
Situation in Maharashtra
A cyclone alert has been issued for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts between October 3 and 7.
IMD clarified that there is no direct threat to Maharashtra’s coast, though light to moderate rainfall is expected. Strong winds of 45–55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, may hit the north Maharashtra coast until October 5.
The state government has instructed district administrations to activate disaster management systems, prepare evacuation plans, and issue sea-travel advisories. Fishermen have been strongly advised to avoid venturing into the sea.
Situation in Gujarat
Gujarat’s coastal districts are on alert as the storm may bring heavy rainfall after its east-northeastward shift on October 6.
IMD officials stated that the impact on Gujarat will be minimal, but districts including Dwarka, Jamnagar, Porbandar, Surat, Navsari, Valsad, Daman, and Dadra Nagar Haveli could receive heavy showers on October 8.
Cyclone Shakhti: Key Updates
• Cyclone Shakhti has intensified into a severe storm with winds of 100 kmph.
• The system is centred 420 km off Dwarka, Gujarat.
• It will shift direction on October 6, moving east-northeast.
• Maharashtra is on alert till October 5; no major cyclone threat but strong winds expected.
• Gujarat may receive heavy rainfall in coastal districts on October 8.