The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings as Cyclone Shakti approaches the Arabian Sea, posing a threat of heavy rainfall over Maharashtra through October 7.

Coastal districts — including Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg — are under a high to moderate cyclone warning.  Winds of 45-55 km/h, with gusts up to 65 km/h, are expected along the North Maharashtra coast from October 3 to 5.  The IMD has cautioned that sea conditions will be rough to very rough, and fishermen have been advised to stay ashore.

In the interior regions, heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for parts of Marathwada and East Vidarbha, and flooding is possible in low-lying areas of North Konkan.  The IMD has also issued a “yellow alert” for several districts warning of thunderstorms, gusty winds and possible damage to crops, power disruption, and minor structural damage.