Cyclone Shakhti: Current Position and Trajectory
As of Saturday morning, the cyclonic storm Shakhti was moving further into the Arabian Sea and was centered about 420 km from Dwarka, Gujarat, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The weather office noted that Shakhti is likely to drift west-southwestwards toward the northwest and adjoining west-central Arabian Sea by Sunday. After that, the system is expected to recurve and move east-northeastwards from Monday morning, gradually weakening as it approaches landfall or interacts with landmasses along the western coast of India.
IMD advisories emphasize that the cyclone’s behavior will influence sea conditions and rainfall patterns across the region. The agency’s forecast highlights a two-phase course: an initial surge of winds and seas in the Arabian Sea, followed by a reversal that could prolong rainfall inland as the system weakens while moving northeastwards.
Impacts Expected for Maharashtra
The advance of Shakhti has prompted authorities to issue heightened warnings for several districts in Maharashtra. The affected zones include the coastal districts of Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg, with officials cautioning residents about the potential for rough to very rough sea conditions along and off the Gujarat-North Maharashtra coast through Sunday.
IMD has categorized the risk as high to moderate for the cyclone during the period from October 3 to 7. The wind field is forecast to bring speeds of 45-55 kmph with gusts up to 65 kmph along the North Maharashtra coast between October 3 and 5, though actual wind intensity could vary with the storm’s intensity and land interaction.
Rainfall Expectations Across Regions
Apart from coastal winds, heavy to very heavy rainfall is anticipated in interior Maharashtra, with Marathwada and East Vidarbha likely to bear the brunt. Rural parts and hilly pockets could see intense downpours, raising the risk of localized floods in low-lying areas of North Konkan. While Mumbai itself has been spared the worst so far, the broader metropolitan region remains under watch as seasonal monsoon patterns interact with Shakhti’s remnants.
Protective Measures and Practical Advice
Authorities are advising residents and travelers to stay updated with official bulletins and weather alerts. Key safety tips include securing outdoor items, avoiding exposed coastal promenades during rough seas, and preparing for possible power outages or waterlogging in low-lying zones. Fisherfolk and sea-going traffic are being asked to suspend operations when warned by the IMD and local maritime authorities. Schools and colleges in affected districts may adjust schedules or shift to remote learning if conditions deteriorate.
On the ground, district administrations are coordinating with disaster management teams to ensure rapid deployment of relief and rescue resources if flooding or damage occurs. Citizens should keep emergency contact numbers handy, maintain a basic supply kit, and monitor official channels for the latest changes in the cyclone’s path and intensity.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect Next Week
As Shakhti progresses, meteorologists expect a gradual weakening as the system recedes from the coast and recirculates northeastward. The exact timing of landfall, if any, depends on internal dynamics and interactions with land features along the Konkan coast. The next 24 to 48 hours will be critical for refinement of local forecasts and intensification updates, particularly for interior districts where rainfall could translate into riverine floods in vulnerable basins.
Key Takeaways for Residents
- Monitor IMD advisories and local government alerts for district-level guidance.
- Avoid coastal areas during rough seas and heavy rainfall episodes.
- Prepare for possible travel disruptions and waterlogging in urban and rural pockets alike.
