Cyclone ‘Shakti’ Name: A low-pressure system over the Arabian Sea is likely to intensify into a depression and may soon be named Cyclone ‘Shakti’, as per IMD. The storm is expected to bring heavy rains to coastal Maharashtra and Goa, with red alerts already issued.
As monsoon clouds gather over India’s west coast, a brewing system in the Arabian Sea is drawing the nation’s attention and it may soon earn the name Cyclone ‘Shakti’. But what does this name mean, and how close are we to seeing it declared a full-blown storm?
A low-pressure area hovering over the east-central Arabian Sea has shown signs of strengthening, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirming on Thursday that it may intensify into a depression within the next 36 hours, as per ANI. Currently positioned near the south Konkan-Goa coastline, the system is drawing energy from an upper-air cyclonic circulation, stirring up intense convection, a meteorological sign of brewing trouble.
IMD stated, “A low-pressure area lies over east-central Arabian Sea off south Konkan-Goa. It is likely to move nearly northwards and intensify further into a depression during next 36 hours. There is also possibility of its further intensification thereafter.”
While no cyclone warning has been issued just yet, the signs are being closely monitored.
If it strengthens, meet Cyclone ‘Shakti’
The IMD has issued red alerts for coastal districts of Maharashtra and Goa, warning of “very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall” from Friday through the weekend. Mumbai, which has already seen pre-monsoon showers, has now been placed under an orange alert, while surrounding districts such as Raigad and Ratnagiri are on red alert.
“Extremely heavy rain has been issued in Konkan Goa for the next three days,” said IMD scientist Akhil Srivastava to ANI. “A red alert has been issued here and heavy to very heavy rains may occur in the adjoining areas of Central Maharashtra and West Coast.”
With dangerous sea conditions predicted, fishermen have also been advised to stay ashore. The Arabian Sea is expected to see gusty winds and high waves through the weekend, making it unsafe for any marine activity.