Cyclone Shakhti: Rising Storm over the Arabian Sea

Cyclone *Shakhti* is a tropical cyclonic storm that formed over the northeast Arabian Sea in early October 2025. Named by Sri Lanka under the World Meteorological Organisation’s regional naming system, it marks another instance of increasing cyclonic activity in the Arabian Sea due to warming sea temperatures.

Formation and Path

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that Cyclone Shakhti developed from a low-pressure system over warm Arabian Sea waters. On October 3, 2025, it was centered around 340 km west of Dwarka, Gujarat. The storm initially moved west-northwestward, later changing its course to west-southwestward. IMD forecasts indicate that Shakhti will intensify into a *severe cyclonic storm (SCS)* by October 4 and then move toward the central Arabian Sea before recurving east-northeastward around October 6.

Features and Impact

Cyclone Shakhti brings strong winds, heavy rainfall, and rough sea conditions along the Gujarat and north Maharashtra coasts. Fishermen have been strictly advised to avoid venturing into the sea between October 3 and 6. Though moving away from the Indian mainland, its outer effects may still cause moderate rain and coastal disruptions.

Why Arabian Sea Cyclones Are Rising

In recent years, the Arabian Sea has shown a sharp rise in sea surface temperature, contributing to more frequent and intense cyclones such as Tauktae (2021), Biparjoy (2023), and now Shakhti.

Conclusion

Cyclone Shakhti highlights the growing threat of climate-induced changes in the Arabian Sea. Strengthening early warning systems and enhancing coastal preparedness are crucial to minimize the impacts of such increasingly powerful storms.