Gujarat Braces for Heavy Rains Amid Janmashtami 

Ahmedabad : The Meteorological Department has issued a dire warning for Gujarat, anticipating heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next five days. This forecast comes amidst the festive fervor of Janmashtami, celebrated across the state on Monday amidst joy and devotion.

Several districts, including Amreli, Bhavnagar, Vadodara, Bharuch, Surat, Navsari, Valsad, and the Union Territory of Daman and Dadra Nagar Haveli, have been placed under a red alert by the Meteorological Department. The alert follows the emergence of three active weather systems impacting the region.

Currently, a monsoon trough stretching over Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is expected to bring rainfall to parts of North Gujarat. Meanwhile, an offshore trough is forecasted to cause heavy to very heavy rains in South Gujarat. Additionally, a low-pressure system originating from the Bay of Bengal, now a depression, is anticipated to move towards Northeast Gujarat and South Rajasthan by the 27th of August.

In response to the forecast, Chief Secretary Rajkumar chaired a review meeting at the State Emergency Operation Center to assess the state government’s readiness. District Collectors, Municipal Commissioners, and other officials were urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions against potential dangers.

Ahead of Janmashtami, an orange alert has been issued for the entire state, with expectations of very heavy rainfall, particularly affecting Rajkot city during the festivities. The ongoing Lok Mela in some areas has already experienced disruptions due to incessant rainfall, underscoring the gravity of the weather predictions.

Ramashray Yadav, a scientist at the Meteorological Department, has outlined the specifics for Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, highlighting a prolonged period of heavy rainfall. Gandhinagar, in particular, faces an orange alert for the next three days alongside the state-wide advisory for Janmashtami. Coastal areas of South Gujarat and Saurashtra have been placed under a red alert due to the possibility of extreme weather conditions.

In anticipation of rough seas, fishermen have been advised to refrain from venturing into the waters for the next five days to ensure their safety.

As Gujarat braces for inclement weather, authorities continue to monitor the evolving situation closely. The public is advised to stay updated with official announcements and adhere to safety guidelines during this period of heightened weather activity.