Gujarat : Heavy Rain Forecast for Saurashtra and Kutch, Fishermen Warned

Ahmedabad | Gujarat — A deep depression in the Arabian Sea has triggered a cyclone alert for Gujarat, with the Meteorological Department warning of heavy rainfall in Saurashtra and Kutch over the next five days. Fishermen have been strongly advised not to venture into the sea, as winds are expected to blow at dangerous speeds of 40 to 50 kmph along the state’s coastline.

Port authorities have hoisted LCS-3 signals at Veraval and other ports for 24 hours and DC-1 signals on the southern coast, signaling risk to small vessels and fishing activity.

Cyclone Likely in Hours

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the deep depression over the Arabian Sea is likely to intensify into a cyclone within Friday evening hours. “Rainy conditions will prevail in western Gujarat, with light to moderate showers expected in Ahmedabad as well. The system is moving westward and will continue to impact coastal districts,” an IMD official said.

Meanwhile, another depression near Odisha is also influencing the monsoon system, contributing to extended rains across western and central India.

Dams on High Alert

The continuous rains have put the state’s reservoirs under pressure. As per official data, 146 dams in Gujarat are on high alert, 17 dams on alert, and 14 on warning levels.

Currently, Narmada dam is at 97.32% capacity, and 206 other reservoirs are filled to 95.10%. While this ensures ample water storage, it also raises fears of possible overflows if heavy rains persist.

Season’s Rainfall Above Average

The state has so far received 115.10% of its seasonal rainfall. Region-wise data shows:

Kutch: 140.23%

North Gujarat: 120.19%

South Gujarat: 121.72%

East-Central Gujarat: 115.57%

Saurashtra: 101.96%

“This year’s monsoon has been generous, but the threat of floods and reservoir overflow is real. Authorities must act swiftly to manage dam releases and avoid man-made disasters,” said a social activist. 

Winter’s Early Knock

Amidst the rain, Gujarat is also experiencing an early nip of winter. Rural areas near Surat have reported a mild chill during late nights and early mornings. “The cold will intensify after October 7. People can expect a sudden change in climate with foggy mornings and sharper winds,” said a local weather expert.

Fishermen at Risk

Fishermen remain the most vulnerable community in such weather conditions. “We have strictly warned fishermen not to venture into the sea. Our coast guard and port authorities are on standby,” said a state disaster management official.

The Bigger Picture

Experts warn that climate patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable, with cyclonic formations in the Arabian Sea becoming more frequent. “Cyclones used to be rare, but in the last decade, we’ve seen a sharp rise. Gujarat’s long coastline makes it particularly vulnerable,” said environmental researcher.