Cyclone Shakti Turns Severe, IMD Issues Red Alert for Maharashtra Till October 7; Heavy Rainfall Likely

India's western coast is bracing for impact as Cyclone Shakti, the first post-monsoon cyclone of the season, intensifies over the Arabian Sea. With wind speeds reaching up to 100 kmph, the storm has prompted the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue cyclone warnings for several districts in Maharashtra, including Mumbai, Raigad and Ratnagiri.

Cyclone Shakti Over Arabian Sea: IMD Issues Red Alert For Maharashtra Till October 7, 2025

Maharashtra has been put on high alert as Cyclone Shakti continues to intensify over the Arabian Sea. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued moderate to high cyclone warnings for multiple coastal districts including Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg, with the threat window extending from October 3 to 7.

Cyclone Shakti Turns Into Severe Cyclonic Storm with 100 kmph Winds

According to the IMD, Cyclone Shakti has now developed into a Severe Cyclonic Storm, packing wind speeds of up to 100 kmph. The system is currently located about 420 km off the coast of Dwarka in Gujarat and is moving westward at a speed of 18 kmph. The storm is expected to recurve towards the east-northeast on the morning of October 6, after which it may gradually weaken.

The IMD has forecast strong surface winds ranging from 45-55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, along the North Maharashtra coast between October 3 and 5. The sea conditions during this period will remain rough to very rough, prompting the authorities to strictly warn fishermen against venturing into the sea until October 8.

In addition to the coastal threat, heavy to very heavy rainfall is also expected in Marathwada, East Vidarbha, and parts of North Konkan. These regions may face localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas, due to the persistent and intense rain.

Heavy Rainfall Likely in Dwarka, Jamnagar, Porbandar, Surat, Navsari, Valsad, Daman & Dadra Nagar Haveli and Other Regions

Though Maharashtra is likely to face a more direct impact, parts of Gujarat will also experience weather disturbances. While the core of Cyclone Shakti is expected to stay away from Gujarat's coast, the IMD has warned of heavy rainfall on October 8 in Dwarka, Jamnagar, Porbandar, Surat, Navsari, Valsad, Daman, and Dadra Nagar Haveli.

The cyclone has been named 'Shakti' by Sri Lanka, in accordance with the regional cyclone naming protocol followed by countries bordering the northern Indian Ocean.

In anticipation of the cyclone's impact, the Maharashtra government has activated its disaster management units and issued directives to coastal districts to be on full alert. District administrations have been asked to prepare evacuation plans, issue public advisories, and take all necessary measures to ensure public safety.

Officials continue to monitor the cyclone's movement closely. While a gradual weakening is expected after October 6, the potential for damage due to wind and rain remains high. Citizens in affected areas are urged to follow official advisories and take necessary precautions in the days ahead.