Cyclone Shakhti Intensifies — Rough Seas & Heavy Gusts Expected

Overview — current position and intensity

Cyclone Shakhti over the northeast Arabian Sea has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and moved westward in the past 12 hours, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). The system was reported centred near latitude 22.0°N and longitude 65.0°E, roughly 390 km south-southwest of Karachi. Forecasts show an initial west–southwest movement before the system recurves and weakens. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Forecast track & timing

Regional bulletins from IMD and PMD indicate that Cyclone Shakhti is expected to continue moving west-southwest and reach the northwest / adjoining central north Arabian Sea by October 5. After that it is forecast to recurve east–northeast within the following 24 hours and gradually weaken — a pattern confirmed by IMD’s cyclone advisories. Mariners and coastal authorities must monitor hourly updates. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Winds, gusts and sea conditions — marine danger

The storm’s core has reported gale winds of about 90–100 km/h with gusts up to 110 km/h (Oct 4), and forecasts show strengthening to 100–110 km/h gusting 125 km/h near the centre over the next 36 hours. Sea conditions are expected to be very rough to very high in central north and north Arabian Sea — dangerous for all small and medium-size craft. Fishermen have been expressly advised not to venture into deep sea until at least October 5. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Rainfall outlook — districts likely to be affected

Under Cyclone Shakhti’s influence, light to moderate rains are likely over Sindh districts such as Badin, Thatta, Sujawal and Jamshoro, while Balochistan locations including Hub, Lasbela, Awaran and Kech may also see rainfall and squally winds. Isolated showers or thunderstorms are possible in parts of Karachi division. Local administrations have been urged to prepare for intermittent heavy showers and gusty winds. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Public safety & government response

PMD’s Cyclone Warning Centre (Karachi) is continuously monitoring Cyclone Shakhti and issuing advisories. Provincial disaster management authorities have been asked to stay on high alert, ready evacuation shelters where needed, and to secure ports and fishing harbours. Authorities are also expected to coordinate with national agencies for rapid response in case of localised flooding or storm damage. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Advice for residents, travellers and seafarers

Residents in low-lying coastal communities should secure loose objects, avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, and keep emergency supplies ready. Fishermen and small-boat operators must avoid the deep sea until PMD/port authorities lift the advisory. Those with planned maritime travel should check notices to mariners and contact harbour authorities before departure. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Regional context — why this storm matters

Cyclone Shakhti is the season’s first notable storm in the Arabian Sea and highlights the need for regional coordination between meteorological services and disaster managers. Early warnings, combined with public cooperation, can cut casualties and damage — especially in vulnerable coastal settlements and among fishing communities. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

For continuous, official advisories follow the PMD Cyclone Warning Centre and view the IMD bulletins (RSMC New Delhi). You can also track live national coverage and local action plans on NewsCloud: NewsCloud.pk. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

❓FAQs — Cyclone Shakhti

1. What is Cyclone Shakhti?
   Cyclone Shakhti is a severe cyclonic storm over the northeast Arabian Sea currently tracked by PMD and IMD; it intensified on Oct 4 and is being closely monitored. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
2. How strong are the winds?
   Reported gale winds around the core are about 90–100 km/h gusting to 110 km/h, with forecasts of gusts up to 125 km/h near the centre during peak intensity. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
3. Which areas are likely to get rain?
   Light to moderate rain is expected in coastal districts of Sindh (Badin, Thatta, Sujawal, Jamshoro) and parts of coastal Balochistan (Hub, Lasbela, Awaran, Kech); isolated showers in Karachi division are also possible. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
4. Can fishermen go to sea?
   No — fishermen and small craft have been warned not to venture into the deep sea until advisories are lifted (advice currently up to Oct 5). :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
5. Where can I get real-time updates?
   Follow PMD’s Cyclone Warning Centre, IMD bulletins (RSMC), and trusted national outlets for live updates; NewsCloud will also publish local advisories and safety guidance. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}