The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert across several parts of western India as a potential cyclonic system brews over the Arabian Sea, bringing heavy rains and rough sea conditions to Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and Gujarat.
As of Thursday afternoon, a low-pressure area has formed over the east-central Arabian Sea, just off the Konkan-Goa coast. IMD forecasts that this system could intensify into a depression within the next 36 hours and possibly strengthen further. Though no official cyclone warning has been issued yet, weather authorities remain on high alert and are closely monitoring the storm’s development.
Heavy Rainfall and Red Alert Across West Coast
The IMD has sounded a red alert for coastal districts of Maharashtra, Goa, and central-west India through the weekend. “Extremely heavy rainfall” is expected in the Konkan region and Goa from May 22 to 24, with adjoining parts of Central Maharashtra also likely to be impacted.
IMD scientist Akhil Srivastava told ANI that the storm system may intensify and move northwards, potentially affecting Mumbai and nearby areas if it gains further strength. He cautioned residents and authorities to remain alert as the situation evolves.
The IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea along the western coast of India due to dangerous wave conditions. Specific warnings have been issued for:
The Somalia coast and adjoining southwest Arabian Sea (May 22–27)
Southwest and west-central Arabian Sea (May 25–26)
In addition to the Konkan coast, heavy to very heavy rainfall is also expected over Gujarat, Karnataka, and Kerala over the next 6–7 days. Coastal Karnataka could see particularly intense downpours on Saturday.
In a related update, the IMD also hinted at an earlier-than-expected onset of the southwest monsoon, potentially reaching Kerala ahead of the predicted May 27 date.
While no cyclone has officially formed, the current conditions mark a critical period for India’s western coastline. With red alerts in place and weather systems intensifying, the coming days will require close watch and timely precautions.