Cyclone Shakti, formed in the Arabian Sea, has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm. In response, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for three coastal districts of Maharashtra—Mumbai, Raigad, and Ratnagiri. The alert will remain in force until October 7.
According to Indian media reports on Saturday, the storm’s wind speed has already crossed 100 kilometers per hour. At present, it is located about 420 kilometers off the Dwarka coast in Gujarat and is moving westward at a speed of 18 kilometers per hour. However, forecasts suggest that on October 6 the cyclone may change course toward the east-northeast and gradually weaken.
The IMD has warned that the sea will remain rough to very rough until October 8. Fishermen have been strictly prohibited from venturing into the sea, while residents of coastal areas have been urged to follow government instructions and avoid unnecessary travel.
Heavy rainfall is also expected to accompany the storm, particularly in Maharashtra, East Vidarbha, and North Konkan regions. Low-lying areas may become inundated, disrupting normal life.