IMD Issues Cyclone ‘Shakti’ Warning for Maharashtra; Heavy Rains and Strong Winds Forecast
Mumbai, Konkan and parts of Vidarbha, Marathwada to face rough seas, flooding risk from October 3–7
Mumbai, Oct 3: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cyclone ‘Shakti’ warning for Maharashtra, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough sea conditions between October 3 and 7.
According to IMD, districts likely to be affected include Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg. Winds with speeds of 45–55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, are expected along the North Maharashtra coast from October 3 to 5. The department cautioned that wind intensity may rise further if the cyclone strengthens.
Rough sea conditions are forecast along the northern Maharashtra coast until October 5, prompting authorities to advise fishermen to stay away from the sea.
In addition, IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall across the interior regions, particularly in East Vidarbha and Marathwada, while low lying areas in North Konkan may face flooding due to intense cloud cover and high moisture infiltration.
The Maharashtra government has directed district administrations to step up preparedness. Disaster management teams have been asked to:
Activate emergency response systems
Prepare evacuation plans for citizens in vulnerable areas
Issue advisories against sea travel
Ensure public safety during heavy rainfall and flooding incidents
With Cyclone ‘Shakti’ gaining strength, authorities have urged residents, especially in coastal and flood-prone zones, to remain alert and follow official guidelines to minimize risks.
