Cyclone Shakti to Hit Maharashtra; IMD Issues Alerts for Coastal and Interior Regions

Cyclone Shakti is expected to affect parts of Maharashtra between October 3 and 7, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned, issuing high to moderate cyclone alerts.

Areas on Alert: Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg are likely to experience rough weather. Winds along the North Maharashtra coast are forecast at 45–55 km/h, with gusts up to 65 km/h from October 3 to 5.

Precautions for Fishermen: Authorities have advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea, as very rough conditions are expected along the northern coast until October 5.

Rainfall Predictions: Heavy to very heavy rains are expected in interior Maharashtra, especially in East Vidarbha and parts of Marathwada, potentially causing flooding in low-lying areas of North Konkan.

Government Preparations: The Maharashtra government has issued a yellow alert for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, Pune, and Ratnagiri. District administrations are instructed to:

• Activate disaster management systems

• Prepare evacuation plans for coastal and low-lying areas

• Issue public advisories and safety instructions

• Advise against sea travel

This warning follows recent heavy rains in the state, when Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad were placed on red alert. The IMD has also forecast above-normal rainfall in Maharashtra for October, based on its monthly probabilistic forecast.