Date: May 18, 2025
By: NewsMakers Desk

A potential cyclonic storm named Cyclone Shakti is brewing over the Bay of Bengal, according to the latest alert from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). While the system is currently classified as a low-pressure area, it has the potential to intensify between May 23 and May 28, 2025. If it happens, it may bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding to parts of eastern India and southern Bangladesh.

Latest Weather Update: Southwest Monsoon Begins

On May 14, 2025, the IMD announced the arrival of the southwest monsoon in parts of the Andaman Sea, Nicobar Islands, and northern Andaman Sea. This is often the first sign of broader weather activity in the region.

Alongside the monsoon, an upper-air cyclonic circulation has been observed over the Andaman Sea. This condition is being closely monitored, as it could develop into a low-pressure system between May 16 and May 22—a precursor to Cyclone Shakti.

What is Cyclone Shakti?

Cyclone Shakti, if it forms, will be a named cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal. The name “Shakti” was contributed by Sri Lanka, as part of the WMO/ESCAP panel of 13 countries that provide cyclone names for the North Indian Ocean region.

This would be the first major weather system to impact the Bay of Bengal in the 2025 pre-monsoon season.

Areas That May Be Affected

If Cyclone Shakti intensifies and moves toward land, the following areas are expected to be most at risk:

🇮🇳 India

Odisha
West Bengal

🇧🇩 Bangladesh

Khulna Division
Chattogram Division

Both Indian and Bangladeshi authorities have initiated early preparedness and disaster management measures.

What Precautions Should Coastal Residents Take?

Although the cyclone has not yet formed, residents in potentially affected areas should begin preparations:

✅ Stay informed via official IMD bulletins and local weather reports.
✅ Locate nearby cyclone shelters and understand evacuation procedures.
✅ Stock supplies like water, dry food, medications, flashlights, and batteries.
✅ Secure your home—close windows, reinforce doors, and bring outdoor items inside.
✅ Avoid sea travel and fishing activities during the alert period.

IMD Clarifies: No Cyclone Warning Yet

Amid viral social media posts claiming that Cyclone Shakti is imminent, the India Meteorological Department has issued an urgent clarification:

“There is no cyclonic storm currently forming in the Bay of Bengal. The observed system is a cyclonic circulation, not a storm.”

Cyclonic Circulation vs. Cyclonic Storm

Many people confuse the two:

Cyclonic circulation: A weather system with rotating winds that may bring clouds or rain. Not dangerous on its own.
Cyclonic storm: A severe weather system with high-speed winds and heavy rains, often leading to destruction and flooding.

Currently, only a cyclonic circulation exists, which may or may not intensify into a storm.

Why Cyclone Names Matter

The name “Shakti” was selected by Sri Lanka from a pre-approved list created by the 13-member WMO/ESCAP panel. Countries like India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Thailand submit names in advance. The name system helps avoid confusion and aids in effective disaster communication.

In April 2020, the IMD and the Ministry of Earth Sciences published a new list of 169 cyclone names, replacing the previous ones.

Conclusion: Stay Alert, Not Anxious

While Cyclone Shakti has not yet formed, weather experts urge vigilance. The situation remains dynamic, and IMD will continue issuing updates. Residents are advised to prepare calmly and avoid believing or sharing unverified information.

Stay tuned to NewsMakers.com.pk for the latest weather alerts, updates, and safety tips.