Sudden Rainfall and Storms in Gujarat Claim 14 Lives, Injure 16
Gujarat Weather Alert: Gujarat experienced a sudden weather change, with heavy rainfall and storms causing widespread havoc across several districts. This unseasonal rainfall has resulted in 14 fatalities and 16 serious injuries. The state government and meteorological department have issued a red alert for the next three days. Authorities are on high alert due to the anticipated heavy rainfall, hailstorms, and b winds.
Rainfall Impact and Damage
Sudden rainfall and storms across approximately 13 districts of the state led to numerous incidents. In Vadodara, three people died due to falling electricity wires and building debris. In Ahmedabad, a person was killed when a hoarding collapsed onto an auto-rickshaw.
Two people died from lightning strikes in Aravalli district. Other districts reported incidents involving falling trees, collapsing walls, and lightning strikes. This unseasonal rainfall has not only created a weather crisis but also caused significant loss of life and property.
Weather Forecast
The meteorological department has warned of heavy rainfall accompanied by thunder, lightning, and b winds across more than 75% of Gujarat from May 6th to 8th. Temperatures are expected to drop during these three days, creating monsoon-like conditions.
May 6th:
Heavy rainfall with thunder and lightning is likely across most parts of the state. Wind speeds could reach 60-70 km per hour. Kutch, Banaskantha, Patan, Mehsana, Surendranagar, Anand, Bharuch, and Narmada districts face a particularly high risk of b winds and heavy rain.
May 7th:
Gale-force winds of 70-80 km per hour are possible in some areas. Many districts may experience heavy rainfall and hailstorms. Other areas can expect light to moderate rain and wind.
May 8th:
The rainfall is expected to continue on the third day. Winds of 50-60 km per hour are possible in some areas, with a high probability of heavy rainfall in Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Anand, Amreli, and Bhavnagar districts.
Temperature Drop and Relief from Heat
This rainfall is expected to lower temperatures by 3-5 degrees Celsius, providing some relief from the intense April-May heat. The meteorological department has also issued yellow and orange alerts, indicating a serious situation.
Government Preparedness and Citizen Advice
The state government and disaster management department have deployed relief and rescue teams across all districts. The NDRF and local administration are continuously monitoring areas at risk.
Citizens are advised to:
- Take meteorological warnings seriously.
- Avoid going outdoors during rainfall or storms.
- Stay away from electricity poles, trees, and weak walls.
- Contact the administration's helpline in any emergency.
