A bridge collapsed in Mirik, Darjeeling, West Bengal, following incessant heavy rains, leading to the tragic death of 6 individuals. Reports of landslides have also emerged from surrounding hilly areas, exacerbating the grim situation.
Cyclone Shakti Intensifies
The first post-monsoon cyclone in the Arabian Sea, named 'Shakti', has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Saturday that the storm is active approximately 420 km. From Dwarka, Gujarat, in the Arabian Sea, with winds blowing at a speed of 100 km per hour.
Storm Trajectory and Impact
Over the next 24 hours, Cyclone Shakti is expected to move west-southwestwards, reaching the northwest and central parts of the Arabian Sea. From Monday, it's likely to recurve northeastwards and gradually weaken, while
Alert for Gujarat and Maharashtra
The impact of Cyclone Shakti has led to rough sea conditions off the coasts of Gujarat and North Maharashtra. A cyclone warning has been issued for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts in Maharashtra. Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds is anticipated in the coastal areas of North Konkan until October 7. Rough sea conditions are predicted for the Gujarat, North Maharashtra, and Pakistan coasts until Sunday, though the intensity is expected to gradually decrease thereafter. High waves, strong winds, and heavy rainfall are forecast for Gujarat and North Maharashtra until October 7, while
Maharashtra Government Directives
The IMD has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts of Maharashtra until October 7, with a possibility of flooding in low-lying areas of Goa. The Maharashtra government has issued specific instructions to authorities regarding Cyclone Shakti. District administrations have been directed to activate disaster management systems, plan for the evacuation of citizens in coastal and low-lying areas, and issue necessary advisories, while fishermen have been strictly warned not to venture into the Arabian Sea off the coasts of Gujarat and Maharashtra until October 7.
