Although Cyclone Shakti has developed in the Arabian Sea, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Saturday predicted that Mumbai was unlikely to experience heavy or moderate rainfall activity in the next few days. Issuing a five-day forecast, the IMD said that Mumbai may only see sporadic spells of light rainfall till October 8. A similar forecast has been issued for the Thane and Raigad districts as well; however, for the Palghar district, chances of heavy rainfall have been predicted on October 8. “Even though a cyclonic formation has developed in the Arabian Sea, it is still very far from Mumbai. Therefore, as of now, there is no chance that Mumbai, along with the interiors of Maharashtra, will witness heavy rainfall activity. However, light spells of rain in the form of drizzle may continue for the next week,” said a senior IMD official. Meanwhile, on Saturday afternoon, the weather bureau also issued a nowcast warning stating that a moderate spell of rainfall, along with thunderstorms and lightning, will lash the districts of Ratnagiri, Kolhapur, Sindhudurg, Nanded, Hingoli, Beed, and Dharashiv within a three- to five-hour window. The IMD added that the wind speed can reach up to 40-50 kmph, and asked people to take necessary precautions. Earlier on Saturday morning, the Maharashtra Government issued instructions for preparation in response to Cyclone Shakti. The state government stated that district administrations should activate their disaster management systems, prepare evacuation plans for citizens in coastal and low-lying areas, issue public advisories, advise against sea travel, and maintain safety during heavy rains.
