Will Gujarat Face Heavy Rains in the Coming Days?
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Synopsis
Gujarat braces for heavy rainfall as the IMD issues alerts for various districts. The NDRF and SDRF teams are on standby, ensuring preparedness for potential emergencies. With a history of erratic rainfall patterns exacerbated by climate change, authorities stress the importance of vigilance as the monsoon season progresses.
Key Takeaways
- Heavy rains forecasted for Gujarat.
- NDRF and SDRF teams on high alert.
- Potential impact on agriculture and infrastructure.
- Need for effective disaster management strategies.
- Erratic rainfall patterns observed in recent years.
Gandhinagar, Aug 19 (NationPress) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted an onset of extremely heavy rainfall in various regions of Gujarat over the next two days.
According to their advisory, districts such as Amreli, Bhavnagar, Surat, Navsari, and Valsad are expected to receive significant rainfall on August 20. Meanwhile, districts like Kutch, Devbhumi Dwarka, Porbandar, and Junagadh may see similar weather patterns on August 21.
Furthermore, the IMD forecasts moderate to heavy rain across the state until August 25.
A meeting of the Weather Watch Group, led by the Relief Commissioner at SEOC Gandhinagar, evaluated the current situation.
Officials from the IMD provided a comprehensive outlook for the upcoming week, while disaster management agencies shared their preparedness strategies.
Representatives from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) indicated that 12 NDRF teams and 20 State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been stationed across various districts, with an additional NDRF team on standby.
An SDRF unit has also been assigned for crowd management during the Tarnetar fair in Surendranagar.
Data shared by officials from the irrigation department revealed the status of water storage across 206 reservoirs in the state, indicating that 61 are on high alert, 27 are on alert, and 21 are at the warning level. Updates on Sardar Sarovar Dam storage levels were also discussed.
The Relief Commissioner urged all departmental nodal officers to remain alert and ensure seamless coordination in the event of emergencies during this monsoon season.
Attendees included representatives from the Gujarat Water Supply Board, Gujarat Maritime Board, Central Water Commission, ISRO, GSRTC, and various other departments such as Agriculture, Health, Energy, and Animal Husbandry.
As of August 18–19, 2025, Gujarat has received approximately 68.91% of its average seasonal monsoon rainfall, with significant rainfall over the past week enhancing water levels in major water bodies.
Since 2020, the rainfall pattern in Gujarat has become increasingly inconsistent, characterized by fewer but more intense rainy days. The year 2023 saw Cyclone Biparjoy severely affect crops across 1.3 lakh hectares, while 2024 recorded an unprecedented 66 extremely heavy rainfall events, double the occurrences of the previous year, with Cyclone Asna elevating seasonal rain levels to 180% of normal in certain districts.
This trend worsened in 2025, with 20 times more rainfall than normal in May and a 161% increase in June, setting a new record over the past 44 years, with Kutch alone witnessing 184% of its seasonal average.
By mid-2025, Gujarat had already achieved 30% of its monsoon quota, marking the fastest start in a decade, and the IMD forecasts above-normal rainfall throughout August, emphasizing how climate change is leading to brief, intense, and disruptive rainfall episodes rather than steady monsoons.
Point of View
The weather forecast in Gujarat highlights the urgent need for robust disaster management strategies. With climate change driving unpredictable weather patterns, it is crucial for state authorities to remain vigilant and prepared. The proactive measures taken by NDRF and SDRF teams exemplify a commitment to safeguarding lives and property, reflecting a responsible approach during these tumultuous times.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What districts in Gujarat are expected to receive heavy rain?
The IMD has forecasted heavy rain for Amreli, Bhavnagar, Surat, Navsari, and Valsad on August 20, and Kutch, Devbhumi Dwarka, Porbandar, and Junagadh on August 21.
What measures are being taken by disaster management agencies?
The NDRF has deployed 12 teams and the SDRF has 20 teams ready across the districts, with additional units for crowd management during local events.
How has rainfall in Gujarat changed in recent years?
Gujarat has seen increasingly erratic rainfall patterns, with fewer rainy days but more intense downpours, significantly impacting agriculture and water management.
What is the current status of water reservoirs in Gujarat?
As of now, 61 reservoirs are on high alert, 27 on alert, and 21 at the warning level, indicating significant water storage issues.
What is the expected rainfall situation in the upcoming weeks?
The IMD predicts moderate to heavy rainfall across the state until August 25, with an expectation of above-normal rains through the month.
