Dwarka: The severe cyclonic storm “Shakhti” over the west-central and adjoining northwest Arabian Sea has weakened into a Cyclonic Storm, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This brings relief for Gujarat as the cyclone has moved over 900 km away from the state’s coastal areas. However, as the open sea conditions are likely to remain rough till tomorrow, the IMD has advised fishermen to avoid venturing into open sea areas far from the Gujarat coast.

As of 5:30 AM IST today, the storm was located near latitude 19.6°N and longitude 60.4°E, about 200 km southeast of Masirah (Oman), 310 km south-southeast of Ras Al Hadd (Oman), 910 km southwest of Karachi (Pakistan), 950 km west-southwest of Dwarka, and 970 km west-southwest of Naliya.

During the past six hours, Shakhti moved nearly southwards at a speed of 5 kmph. It is expected to move east-southeastwards over the Arabian Sea and weaken into a depression by the morning of October 7, the IMD said.

Forecasted Intensity and Location:

Gale winds of 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph are currently affecting the westcentral and adjoining northwest Arabian Sea. Winds are expected to gradually decrease to 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph by the morning of October 7.

Sea conditions remain very rough to high until the morning of October 7, after which they are expected to improve.

Fishermen are strongly advised not to venture into the westcentral and adjoining northwest Arabian Sea until October 7. DeshGujarat