IMD issues red alert as heatwave sweeps in Gandhinagar

Gandhinagar: “Maximum temperatures are possible to be in the range of 40-42 degrees Celsius during the next 2-3 days over the internal areas of Saurashtra-Kachchh, adjoining regions of North Gujarat and over some parts of South Gujarat,” the IMD alert said.

Gandhinagar Records 42°C, Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar at 40.4°C

Temperatures soared across Gujarat on Monday, with Bhuj recording a scorching 42°C, while Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar followed closely at 40.4°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for multiple districts, warning of an intense heatwave likely to persist till March 13 (Thursday).

Heatwave Alert for Several Districts

According to the IMD advisory, temperatures between 40-42°C are expected over the next two to three days in the interior regions of Saurashtra-Kutch, North Gujarat, and South Gujarat. As a result, heatwave conditions are forecasted to continue for multiple days.

Red and Orange Alerts Issued

• March 11 (Red Alert): Kutch, Morbi, Surendranagar, Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, Junagadh, Porbandar, and Surat.
• March 12 (Orange Alert): Kutch, Banaskantha, Surendranagar, and Rajkot.

An IMD official stated, “The yellow alert has been upgraded to red and orange as the heatwave is persisting for multiple days. This is the second consecutive day of extreme heat, and conditions will likely last another 3-4 days.”

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Widespread Impact Across Gujarat

Heatwave conditions are expected to prevail till March 13 in several districts, including Banaskantha, Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Surat, Surendranagar, Rajkot, Porbandar, Junagadh, Morbi, Amreli, Gir Somnath, and Kutch.

On Monday, heatwave conditions were already reported in Rajkot, Surendranagar, and Bhuj, with day temperatures rising significantly above normal levels in most parts of Gujarat.

Precautionary Measures

With unseasonal heat gripping Gujarat, authorities urge residents to:

✔ Stay hydrated and avoid direct sun exposure.

✔ Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.

✔ Avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.

✔ Ensure proper care for vulnerable groups, including children, elderly individuals, and pets.

The IMD advises caution as the heatwave continues to intensify, with the hottest days still ahead.