Cyclone Shakti Moves Toward Gujarat Coast, IMD Warns of Severe Storm Within 24 Hours
Cyclone Shakti, currently forming over the Arabian Sea, is intensifying and rapidly moving towards the Gujarat coast, prompting a severe weather warning from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The cyclone is expected to strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm within the next 24 hours.
Current Cyclone Status:
- Location: Around 280–340 km west of Dwarka, Gujarat
- Also Located: 330 km south-southwest of Karachi, Pakistan
- Movement: Northwest at a speed of 8 km/h
- Coordinates (as of Oct 3, 5:30 PM IST): Latitude 22.0°N, Longitude 66.4°E
Meteorologists predict that Cyclone Shakti will move further into the northern and central Arabian Sea by October 5, and is likely to curve east-northeastward by October 6.
IMD Issues Alerts for Gujarat and Maharashtra
The IMD has sounded alerts until October 7 for coastal districts of Maharashtra and Gujarat, including:
- Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg
Residents in these areas may experience:
- Strong winds
- Heavy to very heavy rainfall
- High sea waves
Fishermen are strictly advised not to venture into the sea due to hazardous marine conditions.
Flood Concerns in Coastal Regions
The IMD has warned of:
- Potential flooding in low-lying areas, especially in North Konkan
- Heavy rainfall in Vidarbha and Marathwada regions
State governments have been directed to:
- Activate disaster management protocols
- Prepare evacuation plans
- Suspend maritime activities
- Keep rescue and relief teams on standby
Rising Cyclone Activity in Arabian Sea
Traditionally less active than the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea has seen a sharp increase in storm frequency and intensity in recent years.
Previous major cyclones:
- Tauktae (2021)
- Biparjoy (2023)
Cyclone Shakti adds to growing concerns about the impact of climate change on Arabian Sea weather patterns.
Cyclone Shakti – At a Glance
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Distance | 280–340 km west of Dwarka |
| Movement | Northwest at 8 km/h |
| Expected Intensity | Severe Cyclonic Storm (within 24 hrs) |
| Projected Direction | Shifting ENE from October 6 |
| Areas on Alert | Coastal Gujarat & Maharashtra |
| Hazards | Strong winds, rain, high sea waves |
Public Advisory
- People in coastal and low-lying regions should stay alert
- Avoid non-essential sea travel
- Follow official updates and emergency instructions
- Save and use helpline numbers during emergencies
Though Cyclone Shakti is still offshore, the threat it poses is real. Authorities urge residents in Gujarat and Maharashtra to remain cautious and fully prepared, as the storm system continues to gain strength.
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