IMD Issues Cyclone ‘Shakti’ Warning for Maharashtra
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cyclone alert for Maharashtra as Cyclone ‘Shakti’ approaches. The storm is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rains to several coastal and interior districts between October 3 and 7, posing risks of flooding and crop damage.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cyclone warning for Maharashtra as Cyclone ‘Shakti’ begins to intensify over the Arabian Sea. The alert, effective from October 3 to 7, predicts heavy to very heavy rainfall across the Konkan coast and interior districts. The weather department has advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea and urged authorities to remain on high alert for potential flooding and wind damage.
According to IMD’s early projections, the cyclone is expected to bring intense rainfall to districts including Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Raigad, Thane, and Mumbai, while moderate to heavy rain is also likely across Nashik, Pune, and Ahmednagar. Wind speeds could range between 60–90 km/h, with gusts exceeding 100 km/h in coastal belts. Emergency teams have been instructed to prepare for quick evacuation and relief operations if required.
The state government has activated disaster response units in vulnerable districts and placed control rooms on round-the-clock duty. Maharashtra’s agriculture department has also urged farmers to take preventive measures such as draining excess water from standing crops and securing farm equipment. The warning has caused concern among farmers who recently suffered losses due to continuous rains in September.
IMD officials stated that Cyclone ‘Shakti’ is likely to follow a north-eastward trajectory before weakening into a deep depression by October 7. However, localized flooding and landslides remain possible, particularly in hilly and coastal regions. Fishermen communities are being relocated from high-risk zones, and ports have been advised to suspend operations temporarily.
As Maharashtra braces for the cyclone’s impact, authorities are emphasizing preparedness over panic. Disaster management officials are coordinating with local bodies to ensure relief materials and shelters are ready. The IMD continues to monitor the storm’s movement closely and will issue updated advisories every six hours. Farmers and residents are being urged to follow official weather updates and safety instructions.
