Cyclone Shakhti: Formation, Features, and Rising Arabian Sea Threats
Syllabus: Geography – Disaster Management (UPSC Prelims)
Source: Down To Earth
Context
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported the formation of Cyclone Shakhti over the northeast Arabian Sea, which could affect coastal regions of western India.
What is Cyclone Shakhti?
- A tropical cyclone forming about 340 km west of Dwarka, Gujarat.
- Named “Shakhti” following the World Meteorological Organization’s regional naming guidelines.
How It Formed
- Started as a low-pressure system over the warm waters of the Arabian Sea in early October 2025.
- Became a Cyclonic Storm (CS) on October 3.
- Likely to strengthen into a Severe Cyclonic Storm (SCS) while moving west-southwest.
Key Characteristics
- Strong winds and high waves.
- Heavy rainfall along coastal areas.
- Part of a trend of more frequent Arabian Sea cyclones due to rising sea surface temperatures.
Why Cyclones Are More Common in Bay of Bengal
- Warmer Sea Surface:
- Bay of Bengal retains warmer water (29–30°C) because it is semi-enclosed.
- Arabian Sea remains cooler due to wind patterns and evaporation.
- Moisture Supply:
- Bay of Bengal receives high moisture from rivers and monsoon winds.
- Arabian Sea is drier, influenced by winds from Oman and Yemen.
- External Influences:
- Pacific typhoons often enter the Bay of Bengal as low-pressure systems, intensifying cyclones.
- Arabian Sea rarely receives such external triggers.
Conclusion
Cyclone Shakhti underscores the increasing risk of cyclones in western India. Preparedness, early warning systems, and public awareness are crucial to minimize damage and protect lives.
