Heavy Rains Lash Gujarat as IMD Issues Three-Day Alert for Saurashtra and South Gujarat

Surat | Gujarat — Gujarat’s weather has taken another unpredictable turn, bringing unseasonal heavy rains to several districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a three-day weather alert for Saurashtra and South Gujarat, warning of intense rainfall, strong winds, and rough sea conditions. The sudden change in weather has caused widespread concern among farmers and affected transportation across parts of the state.

Deep Depression in Arabian Sea Triggers Unseasonal Downpour

According to Dr A.K. Das, Director of the Meteorological Department, “A deep depression has become active once again in the Arabian Sea. Thunderstorms will remain active with heavy rainfall across several districts. Fishermen are strictly advised not to venture into the sea. Signal number 3 has been hoisted at all ports.”

The IMD has cautioned that winds may reach speeds of up to 50 kmph along the coastal belt, posing a risk to marine activities. The alert covers major areas including Bhavnagar, Amreli, Rajula, Una, Mahisagar, Surat, and Gandhinagar, where moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in the next 72 hours.

Mahuva Receives 2 Inches of Rain in Two Hours

The unseasonal downpour began early in the morning, with heavy rain reported in Bhavnagar’s Mahuva taluka, which recorded 2 inches of rainfall within just two hours. Fields and low-lying areas were flooded, leaving farmers distressed.

“The crops that survived the last spell of rain are now destroyed. We were trying to save what was left, but the rain has washed away everything again,” said Ramesh Bhaliya, a farmer from Mahuva, expressing anguish over repeated crop losses.

From 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mahuva recorded 3 inches of rain, Talaja 2 inches, while Sehore and Palitana received 1 inch each. The downpour led to waterlogging in several rural areas, further worsening the plight of farmers already reeling from unseasonal weather.

Heavy rain and thick cloud cover have disrupted normal life in several urban areas. Surat, Gandhinagar, Amreli, and Una reported reduced visibility and continuous rainfall throughout the day. Motorists were forced to switch on headlights even during daylight hours due to poor visibility conditions.

The Star Air flight (6E 7968) from Surat to Diu was cancelled today because of bad weather at Diu Airport. Passengers were stranded at Surat Airport, with the airline advising them to seek alternative arrangements or apply for refunds. “We regret the inconvenience caused to passengers due to unforeseen weather conditions,” a Star Air spokesperson said.

Farmers Fear Further Losses as Rains Continue

The unseasonal rains have dealt another blow to Gujarat’s agriculture sector, particularly in coastal and central districts. With the IMD’s three-day alert still in effect, farmers remain on edge, fearing more damage to their fields.