The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in most parts of Gujarat for the next five days, ending on September 5, 2024. While the state has escaped the potential impact of Cyclone Asna, which was expected to hit the Saurashtra and Kutch regions, Gujarat will experience squally winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour.
The IMD has issued an orange alert for South Gujarat, forecasting heavy to very heavy rains in isolated areas. Regions like Vadodara, Bharuch, Anand, Narmada, Panchamahal, Dahod, and Chota Udepur are expected to witness significant rainfall in the coming days.
Meanwhile, areas like Gandhinagar, Aravalli, Ahmedabad, and districts in Saurashtra-Kutch, including Rajkot, Jamnagar, and Kutch, will experience light to moderate thunderstorms with lightning. Gusty winds with speeds ranging from 30 to 40 kilometers per hour have also been predicted for these regions.
Regarding Cyclone Asna, the Met Department has confirmed that the cyclone has moved away towards the Arabian Sea and will not affect Indian coasts. It is worth noting that only three cyclonic storms have formed over the Arabian Sea in August since 1891.
The recent heavy rains in Gujarat have already led to flood-like situations and loss of life. A road leading to the Statue of Unity in Gujarat has collapsed due to flooding, and significant cracks have been observed in the highway near Rajvi Crossing on Dabhoi Road, forcing its closure to prevent accidents.
The IMD continues to monitor the situation and will provide further updates as needed.