Cyclone Shakhti, the first post-monsoon storm in the Arabian Sea, has strengthened into a severe cyclonic storm, with wind speeds of 100 kmph. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported on Saturday that the storm is located approximately 420 km from Dwarka, Gujarat. It is projected to move westward initially before recurving northeastward from Monday morning and gradually weakening.
Sea conditions along the Gujarat-North Maharashtra and Pakistan coasts are expected to remain rough to very rough until Sunday.
**Situation in Maharashtra:**
The IMD has issued a warning for Maharashtra, affecting Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg, with strong winds anticipated from October 3 to 7. However, IMD scientist Sushma Nair clarified that there is no direct threat to the Maharashtra coast, with only light to moderate rainfall expected in Mumbai and surrounding areas. The state government has activated disaster management systems, prepared evacuation plans, and advised against sea travel due to the potential for heavy rains.
Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the sea, as wind speeds of 45-55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, are forecast along the north Maharashtra coast until October 5.
**Situation in Gujarat:**
Gujarat’s coastal districts may experience heavy rainfall as the storm’s path shifts. IMD Ahmedabad official Abhimanyu Chauhan stated that the impact on Gujarat is expected to be minimal, with the cyclone recurving on October 6. Heavy rainfall is predicted for parts of Gujarat, including Dwarka, Jamnagar, Porbandar, Surat, Navsari, Valsad, Daman, and Dadra Nagar Haveli, on October 8.
**Key Developments:**
- Cyclone Shakhti has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm with 100 kmph winds.
- The system is located 420 km off Dwarka and is expected to recurve by October 6.
- Gujarat coastal districts might receive heavy rainfall on October 8.
- Maharashtra districts are on alert for strong winds up to 65 kmph until October 5.
- IMD predicts minimal impact and gradual weakening of the cyclone by October 8.