Summary
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cyclone ‘Shakti’ warning for Maharashtra, urging citizens and authorities to stay alert as heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds are expected until October 7. This powerful weather system is set to impact major coastal districts including Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg, with the Maharashtra Government activating precautionary measures. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about Cyclone Shakti — from affected regions and wind speeds to government advisories and safety instructions.
Cyclone Shakti Warning: Districts Under Alert
According to the IMD forecast, Cyclone Shakti will influence weather conditions across North Maharashtra’s coastal belt from October 3 to October 7, 2025. The following districts are under active warning:
- Mumbai
- Thane
- Palghar
- Raigad
- Ratnagiri
- Sindhudurg
These regions may experience wind speeds of 45–55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, along with very rough sea conditions, particularly between October 3 and October 5.
IMD Forecast: Heavy Rains and Strong Winds
The IMD has highlighted that the intensity of Cyclone Shakti may increase, depending on its path and strength in the Arabian Sea. The sea will remain very rough to rough along the northern Maharashtra coast, creating hazardous conditions for fishermen and sea travelers.
The interior regions of East Vidarbha and parts of Marathwada are also expected to witness heavy to very heavy rainfall, raising concerns about possible flooding in low-lying areas of North Konkan due to intense cloud formation and high moisture infiltration.
Government Preparations for Cyclone Shakti
In response to the IMD’s warning, the Maharashtra Government has issued strict instructions to all district administrations. The focus is on ensuring timely preparedness and safeguarding lives. Key directives include:
- Activating disaster management systems at district and municipal levels.
- Preparing evacuation plans for citizens living in coastal and flood-prone areas.
- Issuing public advisories on safety measures and travel restrictions.
- Advising fishermen and sea travelers to avoid venturing into the sea.
- Ensuring safety during heavy rains, particularly in urban areas prone to waterlogging.
This proactive approach is aimed at minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of residents during the cyclone’s expected landfall period.
Safety Advisory for Citizens
For citizens in the affected districts, following the government and IMD advisories is critical. Here are some key safety measures:
- Avoid sea travel and fishing activities until the cyclone warning is lifted.
- Stay indoors during heavy rains and strong winds.
- Keep emergency kits ready, including drinking water, dry food, torch, and medicines.
- Charge mobile phones and stay connected to official advisories.
- Report emergencies to local disaster management helplines for immediate assistance.
Impact on Coastal & Interior Maharashtra
While coastal Maharashtra faces the highest risk due to strong winds and rough seas, interior districts like Vidarbha and Marathwada may see intense rainfall leading to flooding and crop damage. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to provide early relief and rescue operations where necessary.
Conclusion
The IMD’s Cyclone Shakti warning for Maharashtra is a crucial reminder of the state’s vulnerability to extreme weather events during the post-monsoon season. With heavy rains expected until October 7, citizens are advised to stay updated with official alerts and strictly follow safety guidelines. The proactive steps taken by the Maharashtra Government, combined with public awareness, can help minimize risks and ensure the well-being of communities across the state.
Note: All information and images used in this content are sourced from Google. They are used here for informational and illustrative purposes only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Cyclone ‘Shakti’ in Maharashtra
What is Cyclone Shakti and when is it expected in Maharashtra?
Cyclone Shakti is a weather system identified by the IMD, bringing strong winds and heavy rains to Maharashtra. The warning is active from October 3 to October 7, 2025.
Which districts of Maharashtra are under Cyclone Shakti warning?
The IMD has issued cyclone alerts for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts.
What wind speeds are expected during Cyclone Shakti?
Wind speeds are likely to reach 45–55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, especially over the North Maharashtra coast between October 3 and October 5.
What is the IMD’s rainfall forecast during Cyclone Shakti?
Heavy to very heavy rains are expected in East Vidarbha, parts of Marathwada, and the North Konkan region, with chances of flooding in low-lying areas.
What are the sea conditions along the Maharashtra coast?
The IMD has warned of very rough to rough sea conditions along the northern Maharashtra coast until October 5, making sea travel extremely unsafe.
What instructions has the Maharashtra Government issued?
The Maharashtra Government has directed district administrations to activate disaster management systems, prepare evacuation plans, issue advisories, and ensure safety during the cyclone.
What advisory has been issued for fishermen?
Fishermen have been strictly advised to avoid venturing into the sea during the cyclone warning period due to dangerous sea conditions.
What safety measures should citizens follow during Cyclone Shakti?
Citizens are advised to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, keep emergency supplies ready, charge mobile devices, and follow official updates from authorities.
How long will Cyclone Shakti impact Maharashtra?
Cyclone Shakti is expected to impact Maharashtra until October 7, with the most severe conditions between October 3 and October 5.
What areas are at the highest risk of flooding during Cyclone Shakti?
Low-lying areas of North Konkan and interior regions of Vidarbha and Marathwada face the highest flood risk due to heavy rainfall and moisture infiltration.