IMD Issues Warning of Severe Heat and Dust in Gujarat
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The IMD has announced a seven-day weather alert for Gujarat, warning of extreme heat and dusty winds. Key areas like Rajkot and Kutch will face heatwave conditions, with Ahmedabad anticipating temperatures around 43°C. The state is implementing a Heat Action Plan to protect vulnerable populations from heat-related illnesses.
Key Takeaways
- IMD warns of severe heat and dusty conditions.
- Rajkot and Kutch may experience heatwave conditions.
- Ahmedabad expected to reach up to 43°C.
- Heat Action Plan implemented for public safety.
- Cooling centers and drinking water availability set up.
Ahmedabad, April 18 (NationPress) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has released a seven-day weather advisory for Gujarat, Diu, Daman, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, cautioning residents about severe heat and dusty conditions in the area.
As per the forecast, certain regions in Rajkot and Kutch are expected to face heat wave conditions along with dust-raising winds over Saurashtra-Kutch and North Gujarat on April 19 and 20, with wind speeds anticipated to reach between 20 and 30 km/h. Throughout the week, dry weather is set to dominate the state.
From April 22 to 24, coastal locales may encounter discomfort due to hot and humid conditions. Ahmedabad is projected to experience maximum temperatures around 43 degrees Celsius under clear skies, with no immediate relief in sight. Recently, some areas in Kutch recorded heatwave conditions, with Kandla Airport hitting a blistering 44.6 degrees Celsius on Thursday, marking the highest temperature in Gujarat. Surendranagar followed closely at 43.3 degrees, while Rajkot noted 42.9 and Amreli reached 42.5. Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar were also in the extreme heat zone, registering 41.8 degrees and 41.0 degrees, respectively.
Bhuj and Deesa were not far behind, with maximum temperatures of 41.4 degrees Celsius and 40.2 degrees Celsius, indicating widespread heat throughout the state.
Humidity levels varied significantly, with locations like Daman and Diu reporting high relative humidity—82% and 72% in the morning, respectively—causing additional discomfort in coastal areas.
Conversely, inland cities such as Rajkot and Bhuj reported comparatively lower evening humidity, intensifying the dry heat. Notably, no rainfall was recorded, further underscoring the ongoing dry spell.
In partnership with the IMD, the state has launched a comprehensive Heat Action Plan (HAP) designed to reduce heat-related illnesses and fatalities. This plan includes early warning systems, public awareness initiatives, and coordination with local health facilities to ensure prompt medical responses for heat stroke and dehydration cases.
District administrations are instructed to establish cooling centers, ensure the availability of drinking water in public areas, and recommend schools and workplaces adjust outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
Additionally, the government collaborates with local municipalities to monitor vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and outdoor workers, encouraging employers to modify work hours to limit exposure during the hottest times of the day. In rural regions, steps are also being taken to secure water availability, including deploying water tankers and repairing borewells, especially in drought-prone areas.
