Cyclone Shakhti Triggers IMD Orange and Red Alerts for Goa and Maharashtra Amid Severe Rainfall Warning
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts for several regions in western India, including Goa and Maharashtra, as a significant low-pressure system builds over the east-central Arabian Sea. The weather system, located off the coasts of North Karnataka and Goa, is likely to intensify into a depression and may evolve further depending on atmospheric and oceanic conditions. The IMD has warned of intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds, potentially disrupting normal life along the Konkan coast and inland districts.
Rainfall Intensifies Across Western Coast
The IMD said that the increasing rainfall activity is being driven by the formation of a low-pressure system over the east-central Arabian Sea. This system is expected to strengthen into a depression and could develop into a cyclonic storm, depending on how environmental factors evolve in the coming days. While a cyclone has not officially formed, the IMD is closely monitoring the situation and has advised citizens and authorities to remain alert.
Red Alert for Goa
The coastal state of Goa is currently under a red alert warning from the IMD, indicating a high likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall. The alert is in effect until Sunday, May 25. On Thursday, rainfall activity was already underway, with Panjim in North Goa recording 9 cm of precipitation. The IMD predicts continued heavy to very heavy rainfall in Goa, along with strong gusty winds and potential flooding in low-lying areas.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to update citizens. “The State Disaster Management Authority in the prevailing severe weather conditions is active with its 24×7 Control Rooms in both North and South Goa to monitor the situation and provide assistance,” he said.
Orange Alert for Mumbai and Surrounding Regions
Mumbai, India’s financial capital, is also bracing for adverse weather conditions. The IMD has issued an orange alert for the city on May 23 and 24, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and winds ranging between 50 to 60 kilometers per hour. The alert also applies to the suburbs and several adjoining districts.
Raigad and Ratnagiri districts in Maharashtra are under red alert for May 24, with the IMD warning of extremely heavy rainfall. Other regions such as Thane, Palghar, Sindhudurg, and the Western Ghats of Pune and Satara have been placed under an orange alert due to the expected impact of the intensifying weather system.
Infrastructure Disruptions Reported
Heavy rainfall has already started causing disruptions. In Thane district, a massive traffic jam was reported on the Bhiwandi-Wada road due to damage caused by continuous downpours. The rain eroded the road surface, creating large potholes and significantly affecting the flow of traffic. The situation was made worse by ongoing road construction in the area, which reduced alternative routes and compounded the congestion.
Broader West Coast Impact
The IMD anticipates widespread rainfall along the western coast over the next several days. In addition to Maharashtra and Goa, the states of Karnataka and Kerala are also expected to receive heavy to very heavy showers. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Arabian Sea due to rough sea conditions and strong winds, which may pose serious safety risks.
The coastal and inland populations are being urged to stay indoors where possible and follow updates from local authorities. Emergency services and disaster management teams have been placed on high alert, and evacuation measures may be initiated if water levels rise dangerously.
Delhi Weather Outlook
While the primary impact of the low-pressure system is concentrated in western and coastal India, northern parts of the country, including the National Capital Region (NCR), are also seeing a change in weather patterns. The IMD forecast for Delhi predicts partly cloudy skies with light to very light rain. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with speeds up to 50 km/h are expected during the evening and night hours. In isolated pockets, wind speeds may reach 60 km/h, generating dusty winds and minor disruptions.
Public Advisory and Preparedness
Authorities in the affected states have activated disaster response mechanisms and are issuing regular bulletins to inform citizens. The IMD has advised residents in red and orange alert zones to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and secure loose outdoor objects. People living in low-lying areas should be prepared for possible waterlogging or temporary displacement.
The IMD has also requested state governments to ensure that rescue and relief teams are adequately staffed and equipped. Public infrastructure such as drainage systems, power lines, and communication networks are being monitored closely to prevent widespread outages or service failures.
Conclusion
As the low-pressure system over the Arabian Sea intensifies, the IMD’s alerts serve as a critical warning to residents across Maharashtra, Goa, and the broader Konkan coast. With heavy rainfall, potential flooding, and the looming risk of a cyclonic storm, preparedness and cooperation between authorities and citizens will be key in minimizing the impact of this developing weather event.
Stay tuned to official IMD updates and advisories for the latest information.
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