Cyclone Shakti is making its presence felt across India’s western and southern coasts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued high alerts for Mumbai, Maharashtra, Chennai, and Tamil Nadu as this Severe Cyclonic Storm brings heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough sea conditions. Here’s everything you need to know about Cyclone Shakti’s impact and safety measures.
Table of Contents
Cyclone Shakti: Quick Facts
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Classification | Severe Cyclonic Storm |
| Wind Speed | 130-145 km/h |
| Current Location | Arabian Sea |
| Alert Level | Orange Alert (Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu) |
| Expected Duration | Until October 7, 2025 |
| Expected Rainfall | 100-300 mm in coastal areas |
| Sea Wave Height | 3-4 meters (very rough) |
| Squally Winds | 40-50 km/h in coastal regions |
Maharashtra on High Alert
Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts are bracing for the cyclone’s impact. An Orange Alert has been issued for these coastal regions, indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 48-72 hours.
Interior Regions Face Threat Too
Eastern Vidarbha and parts of Marathwada are also forecast to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall. The cyclone’s influence extends far beyond coastal areas, affecting agricultural regions and urban centers inland.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed district authorities to maintain high vigilance and ensure all disaster management protocols are activated. Emergency response teams are on standby across vulnerable regions.
Tamil Nadu Weather Alert
Chennai and multiple Tamil Nadu districts including Tiruvallur, Perambalur, Thanjavur, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Pudukottai, Kallakurichi, Salem, and Tiruvannamalai are under weather warning due to a cyclonic circulation bringing moderate to heavy rainfall.
Coastal areas are experiencing squally winds reaching 40-50 km/h, with thunderstorms and lightning reported in several districts. The IMD has advised residents to remain indoors during peak storm hours.
For official weather updates and warnings, visit the India Meteorological Department website or check our weather and climate section on TechnoSports.
West Bengal Weather Advisory
The IMD issued a weather advisory for parts of West Bengal on October 4, warning of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, gusty winds, and moderate rainfall. An Orange Alert has been declared for Alipurduar and Cooch Behar districts, indicating the cyclone’s widespread influence across eastern India.
Fishermen Advisory: Stay Ashore
The IMD has issued strict advisories for fishermen across affected regions:
- Complete fishing ban along Maharashtra coast until October 7
- Avoid maritime activities due to very rough sea conditions
- Wave heights of 3-4 meters making fishing extremely dangerous
- Coastal areas to expect strong winds and high tides
Fishermen who are currently at sea have been advised to return to shore immediately and not venture out until the cyclone passes and official clearance is given.
Expected Rainfall Patterns
Coastal Areas
100-200 mm of rainfall expected, with isolated locations potentially receiving up to 300 mm. This level of precipitation can cause:
- Flash flooding in low-lying areas
- Waterlogging in urban centers
- Traffic disruptions and road closures
- Damage to temporary structures
Interior Regions
Moderate to heavy rainfall expected across eastern Vidarbha, Marathwada, and interior Tamil Nadu districts, potentially affecting agricultural activities and rural infrastructure.
Why Arabian Sea Cyclones Are Increasing
Experts link the rising frequency of Arabian Sea cyclones to climate change and warming ocean temperatures. The Arabian Sea has witnessed more intense cyclonic activity in recent years, with storms like Shakti forming rapidly and intensifying quickly.
Warmer sea surface temperatures provide more energy for cyclone formation and intensification, making such weather events more common and potentially more severe.
Safety Measures and Preparedness
For Residents in Affected Areas:
- Stay indoors during peak storm hours
- Keep emergency supplies ready (water, food, flashlights, batteries)
- Charge all electronic devices
- Avoid waterlogged areas and flooded roads
- Follow official advisories from local authorities
- Secure loose objects that could become projectiles in strong winds
For Travelers:
- Check flight and train schedules before traveling
- Avoid coastal areas and beaches
- Cancel non-essential travel to affected regions
- Stay updated with weather forecasts
Learn more about cyclone preparedness at the National Disaster Management Authority website.
When Will Cyclone Shakti Weaken?
According to IMD forecasts, Cyclone Shakti is expected to weaken after October 6, 2025. The storm is centered over the Arabian Sea and will gradually lose intensity as it moves over land or encounters less favorable atmospheric conditions.
However, heavy rainfall and strong winds will continue affecting coastal regions until October 7, requiring continued vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines.
State Disaster Management Response
Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu state disaster management authorities have issued comprehensive advisories and activated emergency response systems. Relief camps are being prepared in vulnerable areas, and evacuation plans are ready if conditions deteriorate.
The coordinated response between state governments and central agencies ensures rapid deployment of resources where needed most.
FAQs
Q: Is Cyclone Shakti expected to make landfall in Mumbai or Chennai?
A: As of current IMD forecasts, Cyclone Shakti is centered over the Arabian Sea and is not expected to make direct landfall in Mumbai or Chennai. However, its peripheral effects are causing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough sea conditions across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu coastal regions. The cyclone is expected to weaken after October 6, 2025, without making a direct landfall. The main impacts are heavy to very heavy rainfall (100-300 mm), squally winds of 40-50 km/h in coastal areas, and very rough sea conditions with wave heights of 3-4 meters.
Q: Should schools and offices remain closed during Cyclone Shakti?
A: Closure decisions are made by local district authorities based on IMD warnings and ground conditions. In districts under Orange Alert (indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall), authorities typically order school and college closures as a precautionary measure. Some companies also allow work-from-home arrangements during severe weather. Residents should follow official announcements from their district collector’s office or municipal corporation. Check local government websites, news channels, and official social media handles for the latest closure announcements. Generally, it’s advisable to avoid unnecessary travel and outdoor activities during the cyclone’s peak impact period (October 5-7, 2025).
