IMD issues warning as cyclone ‘Shakti’ brings heavy rain, strong winds and potential flooding to coastal and interior Maharashtra districts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for cyclone ‘Shakti’, forecasting heavy rains and strong winds in several districts of Maharashtra between 5 and 7 October. The coastal districts of Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg have been placed on high to moderate alert until 7 October.

The IMD has warned that wind speeds along the North Maharashtra coast may reach 45-55 km/h, with gusts up to 65 km/h between 3 and 5 October. Sea conditions are expected to remain very rough during this period. The intensity of the winds may increase depending on the cyclone’s development.

Authorities have advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the northwest and west-central Arabian Sea, the adjoining areas of the northeast Arabian Sea, and off the coasts of Gujarat, north Maharashtra and Pakistan until 7 October.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast in interior parts of Maharashtra, particularly in East Vidarbha and parts of Marathwada. The IMD has also warned of possible flooding in low-lying areas of North Konkan due to intense cloud formation and moisture accumulation.

In response, the Maharashtra government has instructed district administrations to activate disaster management systems, prepare evacuation plans for residents in coastal and low-lying areas, issue public advisories, discourage sea travel, and ensure safety measures during periods of heavy rainfall.