The weather department has issued a forecast predicting significant changes in Gujarat's weather over the next four days, starting on May 9, 2025. The forecast includes thunderstorms and rain, particularly in the regions of Saurashtra and Kutch, where wind speeds are expected to reach between 50 to 60 kilometers per hour.
As the state grapples with the intense heat of summer, the unexpected onset of rain has created a scenario reminiscent of monsoon conditions. Recent days have already seen rainfall across many districts, with some areas experiencing notable downpours.
On May 9, 2025, the weather department anticipates light to moderate rain across most of Gujarat. Areas such as Vadodara, Chhota Udaipur, Narmada, Bharuch, Surat, Dang, Navsari, Valsad, Tapi, Daman, and Dadra Nagar Haveli in South Gujarat are expected to see heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms. Meanwhile, districts in North Gujarat, including Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Panchmahal, and Mahisagar, along with several in Saurashtra like Rajkot, Jamnagar, Porbandar, Junagadh, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Dwarka, Gir Somnath, Botad, and Diu, will also be affected.
According to the Ahmedabad Meteorological Center's director, A.K. Das, the cyclonic circulation system is responsible for this sudden weather shift, leading to predictions of rain and strong winds for the upcoming days. Rainfall is expected to continue for three days, and although the intensity may decrease, the potential for thunderstorms remains.
On the night of May 8, 2025, Gujarat experienced rainfall with thunderstorms in various areas, indicating the arrival of this weather system. Reports from Ambaji noted that the main highway was submerged, creating river-like conditions in the markets.
"The weather has turned unexpectedly, resembling monsoon conditions in the middle of summer," said Ambalal Patel, a weather expert. He highlighted the active cyclonic circulation that has been causing rainfall across the state. The forecast suggests that as the instability moves eastward, the intensity of rainfall will likely diminish by May 9.
Farmers in the region have expressed frustration over the weather department's forecast of continued rain, which poses a threat to their crops. The unexpected weather has already caused significant damage to agricultural products such as mangoes, bananas, and other crops. With no clear recovery plan in place for farmers, concerns about crop loss are growing.
In addition to heavy rain, the weather department has warned of strong winds reaching speeds of 52 to 60 kilometers per hour during this period. The forecast also indicates a potential increase in temperature by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius within the next 24 hours, after the rain subsides.
Residents of Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar are also advised to prepare for light rain, while other districts are under an orange alert due to the possibility of heavy rainfall. The weather department has urged citizens to remain cautious and vigilant as the weather conditions evolve.
As the state braces for the upcoming weather changes, the impact of the rain on daily life and agriculture remains a significant concern. The combination of thunderstorms, heavy winds, and fluctuating temperatures could lead to further complications for both residents and farmers alike.
In summary, the coming days promise to be eventful for Gujarat, with a mix of rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds expected to disrupt the usual summer weather pattern. Citizens are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their property during this unpredictable weather phase.
