Gujarat Braces for Heavy Rains, Thunderstorms This Week

Rajkot, Gujarat – Gujarat is staring at a turbulent week ahead as a low-pressure area brewing in the Arabian Sea is likely to intensify into a depression by today. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a seven-day alert, predicting heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds across multiple districts of the state.

On Thursday evening, violent weather swept through parts of Saurashtra, particularly Rajkot, Amreli, and Surendranagar districts. Rajkot taluka, Gondal, and Wadiya in Amreli were lashed by torrential rains and ferocious winds that uprooted trees and brought down advertising hoardings. In some areas, the wind was so forceful it shattered windowpanes, causing panic among residents.

“It felt like a cyclone hit the city. The wind destroyed our window glass and knocked down trees across the street,” said Jignesh Patel, a Rajkot resident who witnessed the storm.

The storm’s fury wasn’t limited to Saurashtra. Vadodara too reported late-night gusts that disrupted power in multiple areas. Several slum dwellers reported their roof sheets being ripped off by the gales.

The IMD has issued a stern warning to fishermen: Do not venture into the sea. Those already at sea have been urgently instructed to return, as wind speeds may range between 45 to 70 kmph over the coming days.

Rainfall Predictions by Region:

May 25: Light to moderate thunderstorms with lightning are likely in Narmada, Bharuch, Surat, Dang, Navsari, Valsad, Tapi, Daman, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. Saurashtra regions including Rajkot, Junagadh, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Gir Somnath, and Diu may also see scattered rainfall and strong winds.

May 26: The weather is set to intensify, with wind speeds potentially reaching 70 kmph. The same districts, especially in South Gujarat and Saurashtra, may experience more severe thunderstorms and moderate rainfall.

District administrations have been put on alert to prepare for possible disruption of power supply, road blockages due to tree falls, and damage to informal housing structures. Relief teams are on standby in vulnerable zones.

“Our focus is on pre-emptive safety measures. We urge citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors during high wind periods,” stated an official from the Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority.

The brewing depression in the Arabian Sea signals the beginning of a volatile pre-monsoon season. As the weather system gains strength, the people of Gujarat are being urged to stay vigilant and follow official advisories closely.