IMD Issues Orange Alert for 12 Gujarat Districts; Light Rain, Thunder Likely in Ahmedabad

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for 12 districts in Gujarat, warning of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms due to an intensifying low-pressure system over the Arabian Sea. The weather system, currently active near the Konkan-Goa coastline, is expected to move northward and develop into a depression by Friday evening.

As the system evolves, it may bring substantial rain and strong winds to parts of the state, particularly in the Saurashtra and South Gujarat regions. Meteorologists have also not ruled out the possibility of the system intensifying into a deep depression or cyclone, depending on favourable conditions. If it strengthens further, wind speeds could reach up to 87 kmph, posing risks to coastal and marine activities.

On Thursday, Ahmedabad experienced harsh summer conditions, with daytime temperatures soaring to 41°C. The minimum temperature stood at 30.1°C, slightly above normal. The city remained dry for the day, with humidity levels dropping from 63% in the morning to 38% by evening. So far this season, Ahmedabad has received 57.8 mm of rainfall—well above the usual average by 48 mm.

Forecasts now suggest that Ahmedabad and neighbouring Gandhinagar may see light showers and isolated thunderstorms over the next few days. Wind speeds in the region are likely to be in the range of 35 to 45 kmph, with gusts up to 55 kmph. However, heavy or widespread rainfall is not expected in these urban centres for now. Daytime temperatures will likely continue to hover around the 41°C mark.

Meanwhile, the IMD has placed 12 districts under an orange alert for May 23 and 24. These include Gir Somnath, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Junagadh, Rajkot, Bharuch, Narmada, Surat, Tapi, Dang, Navsari and Valsad. These regions are at risk of experiencing heavy rain, lightning, and thunderstorms.

Adding to the changing weather conditions, an upper air cyclonic circulation is also active over the Arabian Sea. This secondary system could further enhance rainfall across the state in the coming days. The IMD has advised residents in affected areas to remain cautious and stay updated with local weather bulletins.

Fishermen have been strongly advised against venturing into the sea, and those currently offshore have been urged to return to harbour by Friday evening as a precautionary measure.

While most of Gujarat braces for unsettled weather, the state’s emergency services and local administrations are preparing to mitigate any impact, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas.

AM.