What is Causing Heavy Rain in Gujarat? IMD Issues Orange Alert for Six Districts

Ahmedabad, Sep 5 (NationPress) Heavy rainfall has been persistently affecting Gujarat, with 195 talukas experiencing precipitation in the last 24 hours. The town of Umarpada in Surat recorded the highest rainfall of eight inches, while Jambughoda and Bodeli reported more than six inches. Pavi Jetpur and Netrang in Bharuch received over five inches, and more than 20 talukas saw rainfall exceeding four inches, while 25 talukas recorded rainfall above three inches. Most other regions reported between 0.5 inches and 2.5 inches of rain.

As per the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon is projected to withdraw from Gujarat by around September 25. In the interim, sporadic showers are anticipated. South and central-east Gujarat may experience 5-10 mm of rain from September 5 to 11, while Valsad and Dang could receive heavier downpours of 10-20 mm between September 12 to 18.

Light rainfall in the range of 1-5 mm is expected across South Gujarat, Saurashtra, and central-east Gujarat from September 18 to 25.

The IMD has raised an orange alert for six districts: Panchmahal, Dahod, Chhota Udepur, Dang, Navsari, and Valsad, indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next three to four days. Additionally, a red alert has been issued for certain areas within the state.

As of now, Gujarat has received 92.64 percent of its average seasonal rainfall, according to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) in Gandhinagar. North Gujarat has recorded the highest rainfall at 96.94 percent, followed closely by South Gujarat at 96.91 percent, East-Central at 93.79 percent, Kutch at 85.14 percent, and Saurashtra at 84.74 percent.

The ongoing heavy rains have resulted in 82 dams overflowing, while another 68 dams are filled between 70 percent and 100 percent.

Officials anticipate that the state is likely to achieve 100 percent of its seasonal average rainfall by the end of this week.

The extensive rainfall has created mixed outcomes for farmers in Gujarat. On one hand, the abundant rain has provided sufficient water for kharif crops, such as cotton, groundnut, and pulses, decreasing reliance on irrigation and fostering hopes of a prosperous harvest. Conversely, excess rain in certain areas—especially in low-lying and tribal regions—has resulted in waterlogging, crop damage, and fears of pest infestations.

With reservoirs brimming to capacity, farmers are assured of adequate water for the upcoming rabi season; however, the immediate concern remains protecting standing crops from excessive moisture and flooding.