Mumbai: India’s financial capital has been placed on high alert as Cyclone Shakti intensifies over the Arabian Sea, raising the threat of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and turbulent seas along Maharashtra’s coastline. The weather warning, effective until October 7, has put disaster response agencies on standby, with the state government activating emergency protocols and preparing evacuation measures in vulnerable areas.
The city, along with Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg, faces heightened risk as wind speeds along the northern coast have already touched 55 kmph, with gusts of up to 65 kmph recorded on October 3. Authorities fear worsening conditions as the cyclone progresses, with sea states described as extremely rough.
Alert for Mumbaikars!
For Mumbai, the primary concern is flooding in low-lying neighbourhoods and disruption to daily life. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has urged residents to restrict non-essential travel during heavy showers, stock up on basic supplies, and remain alert for warnings about waterlogging and possible tidal surges. Local transport services, particularly suburban rail and road traffic, could face delays if intense downpours coincide with high tide.
Fishermen have been instructed not to venture into the sea, with rough waves and violent currents expected to persist until at least October 5. Coastal villages are being closely monitored for the risk of inundation.
IMD’s weekly weather forecast for Mumbai
Date | Min Temp | Max Temp | Weather Forecast | Warnings |
04-Oct | 25 | 32 | Generally cloudy sky with moderate rain | No warning |
05-Oct | 25 | 32 | Generally cloudy sky with moderate rain | No warning |
06-Oct | 24 | 31 | Generally cloudy sky with moderate rain | No warning |
07-Oct | 24 | 32 | Generally cloudy sky with moderate rain | No warning |
08-Oct | 24 | 33 | Partly cloudy sky with possibility of rain or thundershowers | No warning |
09-Oct | 24 | 33 | Partly cloudy sky with possibility of rain or thundershowers | No warning |
While Mumbai braces for possible flooding, interior regions are preparing for heavy to very heavy rainfall. East Vidarbha and Marathwada are forecast to face widespread downpours, while parts of North Konkan may see waterlogging caused by dense cloud cover and moisture-laden winds. Officials fear damage to standing crops, blocked highways, and power supply interruptions if conditions worsen.
Disaster management, fire services, NDRF teams on standby
Disaster management teams, fire services, police, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been placed on alert, with shelters identified and evacuation plans ready. Hospitals and health centres across the state have been advised to prepare for emergencies.
Meteorologists say the cyclone’s exact path will become clearer in the coming days, but the threat of strong winds, flooding rains, and dangerous seas remains significant.