Deep depression strengthens, storm looms over Gujarat

Ahmedabad : A low-pressure system that formed over the Bay of Bengal a few days ago has developed into a severe weather event, causing widespread rainfall and potential disaster in Gujarat. Initially evolving into a well-marked low-pressure area, this system strengthened as it reached Madhya Pradesh, transforming into a depression. As it moved toward Gujarat, it intensified further, turning into a deep depression, which has wreaked havoc in various districts across the state over the last five days.

The deep depression, now stronger than anticipated, has triggered a red alert in several regions, especially in Saurashtra and Kutch. Devbhoomi Dwarka, located at the western tip of Gujarat, has experienced the heaviest rainfall for two consecutive days. The deep depression, active near Kutch as of early Thursday morning, is moving at a speed of three kilometres per hour, leading to severe rainfall across Kutch and Saurashtra.

The deep depression, instead of weakening, has grown more intense, leading to flood-like conditions in many districts. Roads have been submerged, turning into virtual islands. While meteorological predictions initially suggested that the deep depression would weaken into a depression by today, it has instead continued to strengthen. According to the latest updates, as of 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, the deep depression is located 60 km northwest of Bhuj and 80 km northeast of Naliya. It is moving in a west-southwest direction and is expected to merge into the northeastern Arabian Sea by August 30, 2024. However, before this happens, the deep depression is likely to further intensify into a cyclone, potentially bringing damaging winds across the state, including Ahmedabad.

Ramashray Yadav, a scientist from the Meteorological Department, has warned that Gujarat will likely experience continued rainfall for the next three days. The red alert remains in effect for the districts of Kutch and Saurashtra. Fishermen have been strongly advised to avoid venturing into the sea, as winds are expected to reach speeds of 55 to 65 km per hour along the coast. By August 30 and 31, wind speeds may increase to 65 to 75 km per hour, potentially reaching 85 km per hour. As a precaution, an LC-3 signal has been issued along the Gujarat coast.

The ongoing rainfall in Gujarat is attributed to three active weather systems: an offshore trough over South Gujarat, the deep depression over Kutch and Saurashtra, and the monsoon. These systems are expected to bring rain showers to North and East Central Gujarat in the coming days, further exacerbating the situation.