Amid the concerning weather conditions in the last few days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an update on the development of the severe cyclonic storm named “Shakhti”.
As per the IMD, the cyclonic storm has been moving westward at a speed of 18 kmph over the past six hours.
Severe CyclonicStorm “Shakhti” [Pronunciation: Shakhti] over northwest & adjoining northeastArabian Sea* The severe cyclonic storm “Shakhti”[Pronunciation :Shakhti] over northeast Arabian Sea moved westwards with aspeed of 18 kmph during last 6 hours
— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) October 4, 2025
While informing about the storm, the Indian Meteorological Department posted on X, “Severe Cyclonic Storm ‘Shakhti’ [Pronunciation: Shakhti] over northwest & adjoining northeast Arabian Sea.* The severe cyclonic storm ‘Shakhti’ over the northeast Arabian Sea moved westwards with a speed of 18 kmph during the last 6 hours.”
The cyclonic storm has been closely monitored by weather forecasting authorities due to its rapid intensification and potential impact on coastal regions.
The IMD’s update on X emphasises that the storm is likely to maintain its trajectory over the Arabian Sea while gradually strengthening in the coming hours.
Earlier during the day, IMD also warned about dark cloud cover over Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg. The weather agency also forecasted high wind speed, reaching 45-55 kmph and gusting to 65 kmph.
Emphasising that the cyclonic storm is likely to prevail over the North Maharashtra coast between October 3 and 5, authorities ask people around the coast to stay on alert.
Moreover, the wind speed may increase depending on the cyclone`s intensity. The sea conditions are very rough, with rough seas expected along the northern Maharashtra coast until October 5.
Alert issued amid cyclonic storm
Along with the prediction of very heavy rains in the interior parts of Maharashtra, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also warned of flooding in the low-lying areas of North Konkan due to intense cloud formation and infiltration of moisture into the atmosphere.
Furthermore, the Maharashtra government has also issued instructions for preparation in response to Cyclone Shakhti.
However, the weather forecasting authorities have urged district administrations to activate their disaster management systems, prepare evacuation plans for citizens in coastal and low-lying areas, issue public advisories, advise against sea travel, and maintain safety during heavy rains.
The IMD has also asked local administrations in coastal regions to stay alert and ensure readiness for emergency measures, including evacuation plans if required.
