The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast unseasonal rainfall and thunderstorms across Gujarat till May 9, attributing the weather change to a cyclonic circulation over southeast Rajasthan and a north-south trough extending to southern Tamil Nadu.
Several districts in the state are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall, with intensity expected to increase gradually over the coming days.
Gujarat has been witnessing high temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in many areas. The forecasted rainfall is expected to bring some respite from the prevailing heatwave-like conditions.
According to the IMD, the rainfall is likely to extend to most parts of the state, including Central and South Gujarat, by May 6. A fall of 2 to 4 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures is also expected over the next five days.
The IMD has warned of hailstorms in some areas on May 5 and 6. Heavy rainfall is likely over North Gujarat, South Gujarat, and coastal Saurashtra on May 7 and 8. The department has advised caution, as these conditions could impact normal life and damage standing crops.
Districts likely to be affected include Mehsana, Aravalli, Panchmahal, Dahod, Mahisagar, Vadodara, Chhota Udepur, Tapi, Valsad, and Navsari. Light to moderate rain, lightning, and gusty winds of up to 50 kmph are also expected in Daman and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, as well as parts of Saurashtra and Kutch.
On May 5, weather conditions are expected to intensify, with moderate thunderstorms, lightning, rain, and wind speeds of 30–40 kmph (gusting up to 50 kmph) likely to affect several districts, including Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Anand, Kheda, Narmada, Bharuch, Surat, and the Dangs.
Saurashtra districts such as Surendranagar, Jamnagar, Porbandar, Gir Somnath, Dwarka, and Botad are also expected to be impacted, along with the Union Territory of Diu.
In light of the volatile weather system, the IMD has issued advisories urging citizens and local administrations to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to mitigate potential disruptions caused by unseasonal rain, hailstorms, and strong winds.