Is Monsoon Transforming Gujarat with Record June Rainfall?

Ahmedabad, June 30 (NationPress) Gujarat has experienced a dramatic start to its monsoon season, achieving the highest June rainfall in ten years. As of Monday, the state has recorded 31.62 percent of its seasonal average—approximately 11 inches—a stark difference from last year's meager 2.80 inches at the same time.

Data from various regions indicates robust precipitation throughout the state.

South Gujarat is at the forefront, receiving 34.25 percent of its seasonal quota with 20.09 inches, followed closely by East Central Gujarat at 33.35 percent (10.56 inches), Saurashtra at 32.32 percent (9.51 inches), Kutch at 28.83 percent (5.50 inches), and North Gujarat at 23.53 percent (6.65 inches).

The distribution of rainfall across talukas illustrates widespread monsoon activity. While only one taluka has surpassed the 40-inch mark, 26 talukas have recorded between 20 and 40 inches, 89 talukas between 10 and 20 inches, 41 talukas between 5 and 10 inches, and five talukas have observed 1 to 5 inches.

Gujarat's 206 reservoirs have shown a healthy increase in water levels, now averaging 46.21 percent capacity—up from 38.24 percent last year. Thirteen reservoirs are fully filled, while 18 are on high alert due to rapid inflow. Notably, rainfall in Ahmedabad has shattered its 10-year June record.

In light of the heavy rains, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for 13 districts, including Amreli, Bhavnagar, Gir Somnath, Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, Narmada, Chhota Udepur, Surat, Tapi, Navsari, Dang, and Valsad. The IMD anticipates heavy to very heavy rainfall with thunderstorms on July 1 and 2.

Districts expected to be affected include Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Mahisagar, Dahod, Panchmahal, Chhota Udepur, Narmada, Tapi, Dang, Surat, Navsari, Valsad, Amreli, Bhavnagar, and Gir Somnath.

In response to the intense monsoon onset, the Gujarat government has heightened its readiness to address potential rain-related issues. With the rainfall breaking a decade-long record and several districts already facing waterlogging, the state administration has activated disaster response teams.

The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) is vigilantly monitoring the situation, while district collectors have been instructed to collaborate with local bodies, ensure stormwater drainage systems are operational, and prepare shelters in vulnerable locations.

Units from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been strategically deployed in flood-prone areas. Control rooms are functioning around the clock, and advisories have been issued advising citizens to avoid traveling in low-lying or waterlogged regions.

Moreover, electricity boards and irrigation departments have been urged to maintain vigilance, particularly near high-alert reservoirs and river catchment zones, to prevent mishaps and facilitate smooth water release if necessary.