India: Weather warnings issued for named cyclonic storm in Maharashtra and Gujarat June 1

Event

On Monday, June 1, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) announced that a depression in the Arabian Sea is forecast to develop into a cyclonic storm, named Nisarga, by Tuesday, June 2. Cyclone Nisarga is likely to further develop into a severe cyclonic storm on Wednesday, June 3, before reaching the coast of northern Maharashtra and southern Gujarat by Wednesday evening. The two states are currently on pre-cyclone alert. The cyclone is expected to pass between Harihareshwar (Maharashtra) and the city of Daman (Daman and Diu), bringing heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and winds of up to 125kmh (78mph). Rain, thunderstorms, and moderate winds were reported in Mumbai on Monday. The states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Goa are also expected to be affected. Cyclone Nisarga is forecast to weaken into a cyclonic storm by the evening of Thursday, June 4.

Associated flooding, infrastructure damage, power outages, and transportation disruptions are possible in the affected regions over the coming days.  

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate continuing disruptions, and never drive through flooded streets. Floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.