Cyclone Shakti to weaken in the Arabian Sea, IMD predicts scattered rainfall in Mumbai

Cyclone Shakti, which gained momentum in the Arabian Sea with wind speeds touching 100 kmph since Saturday, is now forecasted to lose strength from Monday morning.

The cyclone will begin to recurve eastwards after reaching northwest and the west-central Arabian Sea by Sunday evening, according to the India Meteorological Department ( IMD).

The severe storm had prompted alerts along Maharashtra's coast, including Mumbai. However, changing wind patterns and a shift in its trajectory have brought relief to the city

The IMD on Sunday said that Mumbai is unlikely to receive heavy or even moderate rainfall over the next few days, which is contrary to previous warnings.

The department’s five-day forecast, issued on Saturday, now predicts only light rain or occasional drizzles until October 8.

Between October 3 and 5, gusty winds ranging between 45–55 kmph, peaking up to 65 kmph, were expected over the North Maharashtra coast. Officials say the winds could continue for a brief period but conditions will stabilise as cyclone Shakti weakens into the Arabian Sea.